aeeble

The museum was founded by Mr. Lai Kao-shan, who has dedicated his life to the creation, research, and development of Taiwanese lacquer culture since childhood. Recognizing the importance of preserving and promoting traditional national crafts, he has made the lacquer artifacts he has learned, created, and collected over the past six decades available for public viewing. The works on display in the museum are all creations by Mr. Lai and his son dating back to the 1940s. Due to their continuous research into lacquer techniques and materials, the collection is extremely rich. The exhibits can be roughly divided into sections such as lacquer paintings, masks, lacquer pottery, various technique showcases, daily use items, and material and tool displays. Visitors will be deeply impressed by the 36 steps involved in lacquer art and the priceless layered lacquer bottles, as well as the unique craftsmanship of the Lai family, known as "carved lacquer." The museum also showcases the latest creations in lacquer art research, such as lacquer guqin and lacquer desks, as well as the "Dadun Lacquerware" tableware recently developed by Mr. Lai Tso-ming in collaboration with the Bureau of Cultural Heritage. What is particularly special is the use of the impression method, where leaves of the Pueraria thomsoni plant, unique to the Nantun Lixingdi area, are affixed to the lacquer surface. In the future, in addition to continuing to research and promote lacquer culture, the museum will also focus on providing DIY creative experiences for visitors and developing more lifestyle-oriented works, making lacquer art more accessible to the general public. Mr. Lai Kao-shan studied under a Japanese master, Yamaguchi Ko, at "Taichung Institute of Technology," where he learned carving techniques and lacquer art ("Horai Lacquer") that incorporated Taiwanese imagery. In 2000, Lai Kao-shan and his son, Lai Tso-ming, converted their former lacquer factory and residence into the "Taiwan Lacquer Culture Museum." The museum currently focuses on the life, achievements, and creations of Lai Kao-shan, as well as the development of Taiwanese lacquer culture, positioning Taichung's unique lacquer culture as a Taiwanese specialty and promoting it widely. Guided tours are available: ■Yes □No ■By appointment. Text and images provided by Taichung City Government Cultural Bureau.