SHORT INTRO OF THE PROJECT

This exhibition records my life in Prague—sometimes joyful, sometimes helpless. It reflects my longing for the ubiquitous temple beliefs in Taiwan. Most of the time, I feel so world-weary that there's nowhere to hide, so I end up doing gymnastics like a crazy cat.

While creating these works, I truly felt like I was living inside them. Facing the language barrier, I had to learn to play dumb, yet I deeply wanted to fit in. From an outsider's perspective, it might seem absurd and pretentious, but it's a true reflection of my inner desire.

Sometimes making new friends makes me so nervous, I wish I can be perfect in front of people.

Should I act cool so that someone will like me? Actually, being proud is just because I’m so nervous.

I’m happy to be here as an art school student, but I also doubt myself when it comes to making art.

Maybe I’m just a kid who loves painting, whether I’m an illustrator or not. There’s no need to doubt myself.

I’m just me. From others' point of view or my own, it’s no different—I create things, and I exist.

I’m obsessed with colors and shapes. That’s why I love illustration so much. Trying always helps me learn new things.

Hey, why don’t you just take a break and enjoy life for a while?

Having no purpose is a good way to know yourself. Enjoy the moment; I’ll be with you and pray for you.

SHORT BIOGRAPHY

Hsu Peng Hsiung (1987) is a Taiwan-based storyteller who expresses his narratives through the art of illustration. His unique blend of wax crayons and oil pastels brings his picture books to life, capturing the essence of his stories with warmth and whimsy. Selected as a finalist at the 2020 Bologna Children's Book Fair, Hsu Peng Hsiung's work showcases a harmonious interplay between his ideas and techniques. Through his enchanting illustrations, he invites audiences into magical worlds that resonate with the heart and stir the imagination.

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