Typhoon

Located in the westward path of Typhoon Alley, Taiwan’s coastlines frequently endure severe storms. Despite repeated devastation, the island consistently recovers with resilience, embedding the experience into its cultural memory. However, shaping a collective identity remains a challenge, deeply intertwined with historical disruptions from cultural assimilation. As Taiwan moved toward democratization and global engagement, art emerged as a means to reconstruct cultural heritage, balancing adaptation to external influences with a quest to define the essence of Taiwanese identity.

Entering the global art stage demanded significant restructuring. Supportive frameworks for contemporary art began forming, while experimental movements embraced progressive expressions that defied oppression, aiming for a decolonized and queer future. Taiwan’s commitment to pushing societal boundaries has solidified its position as a regional democratic leader, as evidenced by becoming the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019. Taiwan’s hybrid identity is both a strength and a challenge, drawing artists to explore it repeatedly, amplifying marginalized voices and navigating an ever-evolving cultural landscape.

Typhoon is the result of in-depth research and collaborations by Tofu Collective, created with dmp editions and a board of advisors. It offers a diverse exploration of Taiwan’s art scene, presenting a mix of emerging and established artists. The two-part release, ME–WE, reflects both personal and collective identity. The ME issue delves into introspective artistic narratives, while the WE issue examines shared memory, societal progress, and the broader cultural framework of contemporary Taiwan.

Volume 1: WE
Featured artists: Sid and Geri, Elug Art Corner, Lea Shu Cheang, Dondon Hounwn, Ping-Yi Chen, Dorairolg, Yu Ning Kuo, Yun-Pei Hsiung, Ya Wen Li, Luo Jr-shin, Kai-en Chen, Jung Woo Yea, Homing Hsieh, Su Hui-Yu, Chia Yu Hsieh, Zito Tseng, Kenneth Lin Ting Yu, Hou I Ting, Jamie Chieh Ming Chun of The Bridgehole Project, Zhang Xu Zhan, Tsai Ming-Jiun, Stephanie H Shih, Lee Tzu Tung

Volume 2: ME
Featured artists: Chen Nienying, Manbo Key, Pin Chun Kuo, Yu Cheng-Ta, Yuen Hsieh, Betty Apple, Su Misu, Wen Gum Gum, Chang Nienwei, Chang Yu Hsuan, Kuang I Ku, Shih Yung Chun, Ciwas Tahos

Specifications – Two books 168 pages each. 22×28×4 cm.

Please note: each cover is unique and will be shipped out randomly.