Lin Jui-Ming (1936-2009)

Oil Painting

1982

Length:90.5 x Width:72 (cm)

Temples are a common theme among Taiwan's artists. At the age of 46, Lin created this unique night scene. The sapphire blue sky reflects the double-eaved roof of the temple. Gold, blue-green and vermillion red are also used in this depiction of this religious structure. On both sides are modern buildings which seem to frame the temple and serve as a contrast. There is a strong gemstone-like effect. Smoke curls up from the temple's incense burners as there is a constant flow of people coming to pray. This is a cultural landscape of Taiwan's devout coming to pray. The brushstrokes are coarse and straightforward and the feel is resplendent and lively.
In this depiction of the Beigang Mazu Temple at night, the artist purposefully added the modern, urban-style buildings with the dark blue sky as backdrop, to create a contrast with conventional portrayals of temples.

Accession number:A0066