Watercolor

2002

Length:197.7 x Width:113 (cm)

Hou Shou-Feng (b. 1938, Chiayi) was originally named Hou Sung-Liang. He began his artistic training under Chen Ching-Hsi and Chen Chang-Keng (both with undocumented birth and death dates), learning the traditions of folk decorative painting. In 1954, he joined the Ming Hsing Art and Scenic Painting Studio in Tainan, where he apprenticed under Huang Liang-Hsiung, focusing on stage and cinematic scenic design. After completing his training, Hou specialized in theatrical backdrops, signboard painting, and Buddhist iconography. He was commissioned by prominent puppet troupes including Kung Le She, Huang Chun-Hsiung Puppet Theater, and New Taiwan to produce scenic designs. In 2014, he was officially recognized by the Taichung City Government as a preserver of the traditional art of stage backdrop painting. In addition to his contributions to folk art, Hou has been recognized in the fine arts realm, winning awards such as the National Art Exhibition, the Chung Hsing Literary Arts Award, and honors from the Salon des Artistes Français and international exhibitions in Japan. He holds permanent exemption from jury review at the Taiwan Provincial Art Exhibition.
Roof of the World: Mount Everest is part of a series themed on “World Treasures.” Though Hou has never climbed Mount Everest in person, he immersed himself in video footage and reference materials to create this watercolor piece. The iconic pyramid-like silhouette of Everest rises from the center of the background, surrounded by swirling clouds and towering peaks. Hou skillfully uses negative space to outline the snow-covered ridges, capturing the crisp glint of perpetual ice. Through the careful modulation of color and tonal contrast, he evokes the subtle shifts in light and shadow at sunrise. In the lower left, a line of tiny mountaineers ascends in orderly formation—minute in scale, yet essential in conveying the majestic immensity of the mountain.

Accession number:20200100068