Department of Cultural Affairs

By Yali Chen
STAFF REPORTER
Photo courtesy of the Department of Cultural Affairs, Taipei City Government

The Department of Cultural Affairs, Taipei City Government and Taipei City Archives are holding a special exhibition to offer local people and foreign tourists an opportunity to gain a better understanding of Taipei.

The exhibit titled “Inter-City” showcases a total of 250 photos of the city from past to present and will run through August 28 in the Bopiliao Historical Block in Taipei’s Wanhua District.

“A picture is worth a thousand words. If you want to better understand Taipei’s history, cultures and varied aspects, this exhibition is a must-see,” said Taipei Deputy Mayor Allen Chiu at the opening of the exhibition.

Hsieh Hsiao-yun, Director of the Department of Cultural Affairs, Taipei City Government added that the showcase is divided into three periods: the Qing Dynasty (1871-1895), the Japanese Occupation (1895-1949) and the R.O.C. in Taiwan (1949-2011).

She encouraged Chinese free independent travelers, especially those from Beijing and Shanghai, to visit this photography exhibition documenting the vibrant city’s development over the past century.

Previously Chinese tourists could only travel to Taiwan in supervised group tours, but since June 28 they have been permitted to travel on their own.

With 250 old and new photographs on display, the exhibition functions as a comprehensive review of the thriving metropolis with a history that dates back more than 300 years.

To mark the ROC’s centennial year, Taipei City Archives also worked with the Chinese Society of Photographic Education to publish a photo book titled “Taipei Images: From Past to Modern” in early July.