In traditional art, the ancients’ insights into nature inspired the creation of a variety of magical creatures. Over time, these beings evolved, gaining symbolic significance and becoming pivotal in various beliefs and narratives. This exhibition delves into East Asian cultures, tracing back to the ancient pre-Qin era in China, all the way to temple and folk art, displaying a rich tapestry of deities and animals embedded in stories. It explores the origins and the auspicious meanings attributed to the mythical creatures, providing viewers with a sense of connection and enjoyment as well as deeper understanding, thereby bringing us closer to the ancients and their aspirations for a fulfilling life.
This special exhibition is divided into four sections and poses intriguing questions such as, “What do mythical creatures look like?”, “What roles do they play?”, “What special powers do they have?”, and “Where can they be found?”. Through these queries, the exhibition explores the creatures’ visual representations, societal roles, extraordinary abilities, and habitual environments. It demonstrates how artists skillfully blend factual knowledge with creative imagination, bringing these legendary entities from myth and historical account to life in the form of remarkably unique and tangible works of art.