A beefed-up action plan was unveiled April 12 by National Palace Museum Southern Branch as part of the Chiayi County facility’s efforts to break the 1.2 million-visit mark in 2018.
Comprising 26 exhibitions and programs, the plan is structured in line with NPMSB’s four new operating guidelines: bolstering youth education ties; connecting with local cultural and tourism industries; fostering closer collaboration among Taiwan’s museums; and strengthening links between art and the daily lives of the people.
NPM Director Lin Jeng-yi said in addition to attracting more visitors from home and abroad, the initiative is enriching individual cultural experiences while deepening NPMSB’s connections with the local community in southern Taiwan.
Highlights of the plan include exhibitions showcasing artworks of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing dynasty (1644-1911), the prehistoric period of southern Taiwan’s Chiayi and the traditional attire of the country’s indigenous peoples. Others comprise bike tours in and around Chiayi, the establishment of a youth-friendly museum network and the launch of children’s theater month.
Another measure set to spur visit numbers is the annual NPM Asian Art Festival. Themed Singapore, the monthlong event highlights the culture and lifestyle of the Southeast Asian country’s Peranakan—descendants of Chinese immigrants to Malaysia and Singapore between the 15th and 17th centuries.
Going forward, Lin said NPMSB is wasting no time in establishing an exhibition and restoration facility for national treasures. Upon completion in 2022, the center is expected to become a major regional arts attraction and help NPMSB break the 2-million visit barrier, he added.
Established in 2015, NPMSB showcases historical artifacts and artworks from diverse Asian civilizations. Comprising a main exhibition venue, artificial lake and landscape park, the 70-hectare museum was designed by acclaimed Taiwan architect Kris Yao, recipient of the 2014 Honorary Fellowship of the American Institute of Architects. (CPY-E)
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