Master Artist Su Rong-ren: Preserving the Art of Traditional Temple Painting

Photo by Cindy Lee

【◎Written by Li Siao-ping ◎Translation by Lin Yu-ciao ◎Photos by Cindy Lee ◎Photos courtesy of Su Rong-ren】

Traditional temples, often constructed from wood, are susceptible to moisture, decay, and weathering, which shortens their lifespan. Decorative paintings not only protect these structures, but also enhance their aesthetic appeal. Su Rong-ren（苏荣仁）, a master artist recognized by Kaohsiung City Government as a preserver of Traditional Painting, takes us on a journey into the artistic beauty of temple murals.

Photo by Cindy Lee

In his work, Su frequently integrates local history and cultural elements. For example, at the Liuyang Wang San Sheng Ancestral Hall（榴阳王三圣始祖公馆）in Kaohsiung's Cieding District（茄萣区）, coastal scenes of Cieding and Singda Harbor（兴达港）come to life in his hanging scrolls.

Photo by Cindy Lee

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