In March 2014, young people led Taiwan’s Sunflower Movement which in time completely reversed the course of Taiwan’s foreign and domestic policy. On the 10th anniversary of the movement, we point out that social and political change is won through the brave spirit and effort of the movement leaders and the people – not awarded as a lucky accident. The Sunflower Movement’s tenth anniversary was on March 18, 2024. In the article, “Spring passes and autumn passes, but don’t forget the sunflowers,” from the exhibition catalog marking the 10th Anniversary of the Sunflower Movement, Patrick Huang, expresses gratitude. He writes, “Fortunately, the young people of the Sunflower awakened the sleeping god of spring. Their fervor to shape destiny and save the country swept across Taiwan.” The Sunflower Movement successfully blocked the proposed legislation easing trade with China, leading many of its participants to enter formal political life and thereby rejuvenating Taiwan’s political culture. Artists played a pivotal role in the struggle, not merely as observers but actively on the front lines. The Island Sunrise Team, employing paint brushes, cameras, and video recorders, documented the events. The exhibition showcases visual and written records from 2014, and its reflections.
In one reflection, the Sunflower Movement directly inspired Hong Kong’s Umbrella movement and its followers, although they failed partly or in whole, while leaving strong images of what might have been. Hong Kong artist Kacey Wong, exiled to Taiwan, continues to express the democratic message and take actions. Ming-Jer Kuo points out that nearly 4700 times in the last 12 months has China violated Taiwan’s air space. Air raids and threats to Taiwan continue today. Looking back to Taiwan’s history, 400 years ago Taiwan shared a history with New York – both were colonized by the Dutch in 1624, which was followed by more colonization, which is commented on in “Between Mountains and Seas” – a new media installation by the Peppercorns Interactive Media Art Team team. Wen-Jen Deng looks at the fate of indigenous tribes in her innovative fiber art piece.
The world struggles not only in war, but in nature, and many people reflect on their lost home, or move to a new land, looking for a new residence. We are like the girl drinking coffee and watching the world, reflecting calmly on all that has changed.
