Su Wong-Shen and Li Ming-Tse have been well known in Taiwan for their literati paintings. They live in their own ways and secluding themselves from social lives and group consciousness, which seem to be defying the rules for success. Cynicism and self-imagination have filled up their art work as well as the real world. Although there's no lush field or beautiful scenery, the characterized landscapes on their canvas have built up a utopia belong to themselves. As Chen Heng-Ke's explanation on literati painting, "What really matter is not the techniques that shown, but the thought they expressed."

Emotional Expressions: Showing the representations of things is never the purpose of Chinese paintings; the expression of inner verve has become the highest pursuit. The art works of Su & Li have not only expressed their hopes of being free by getting away from the madding crowd, but also their inner peace and solitudes. 

Oriental Conception: Su and Li prefer a euphemistical way rather than vehement criticisms when dealing with the topic of politics and society. Surrealistic arrangements are used to construct their own utopia. By expressing their emotions directly and giving up flamboyance, reveal the true beauty of their works. 

Self-Invention: Real life experience is actually the source of those literariness, philosophy and lyricism that shown in the paintings. And through fabrications, they found the truth of their memory.

Paintings need good judges of talent: Contemporary art is a all-round presentation of an artist's talents. It contains joys, sorrows as well as sincere emotions. A wonderful painting could always stop you to enjoy it. And if you appreciate the art work by heart, you could witness and experience Su and Li's post-utopia.

Curator: Suchen Hsieh