We TAIWAN: Identity Through Art Beyond Expo

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A visual art exhibition is underway at the VS. event space in Osaka’s Kita Ward. Holographic projection mapping casts scenes of the sky, the ocean, and whales onto a 15-meter-high wall, drawing viewers into a dreamlike, painterly world. Titled We TAIWAN, the same technology is used inside the TECH WORLD pavilion at the Expo.

*Visitors step into the world of paintings through immersive projection. (©JAPAN Forward by Mika Sugiura)*

Also featured is "The Mother Rivers of Taiwan," a newly unveiled indigo-dyed piece by dyeing and weaving expert Chen Jinglin. He used traditional tie-dye techniques rooted in natural methods. Photos of dye plants from Taiwan and real fabric samples are displayed alongside the exhibit. Together, they create a hands-on learning experience.

"Taiwan has high mountains. So, it not only uses its own tropical plants, but also uses the same plant dyes as Japan, such as persimmon and indigo." I’ve even invited Japanese teachers to Taiwan to teach Nishijin-style techniques.” Chen spoke warmly about dyeing as a form of cultural exchange.

*Chen Jinglin explains his work. (©JAPAN Forward by Mika Sugiura)*

We TAIWAN is organized by Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture and the Taiwan Cultural Center of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan. The event runs through August 20 at four locations across Osaka City, with 545 participating artists.

*Display of Taiwanese plant-based dyeing. (©JAPAN Forward by Mika Sugiura)*

Message Behind We TAIWAN

Taiwan is not a member of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), and cannot join the Expo as a country. Instead, it participates through a Japan-registered company, Tamayama Digital Tech. The word “Taiwan” is absent from official Expo maps. From the outside, the pavilion’s identity is unclear — but inside, it highlights Taiwan’s strengths in semiconductors, art, nature, and tourism.

In contrast, We TAIWAN places Taiwan’s identity front and center through art. The event runs for about 20 days in Osaka, outside the Expo venue. Deputy Minister Sue Wang of Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture traveled to Japan for the launch.

“Taiwan is excluded from many international events,” she said. “Although this is not part of the official Expo venue, we want to express Taiwan through art. Through friendship with the people of Japan, we hope to show that no one in the world should be left out.”

*Sue Wang shares her thoughts at the We TAIWAN venue. (©JAPAN Forward by Mika Sugiura)*

Reflections from the Taiwanese Community in Japan

Chen Tien Long, chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Support Association, shared his thoughts.

“It’s unfortunate that We TAIWAN could not be officially featured at Expo 2025. Still, the effort to showcase Taiwan through art carries strategic value and cultural meaning.”

He added, “The Expo is a global stage where countries highlight their unique appeal. Even in a private pavilion format, if you present cultural creativity and originality, it can still attract international attention.” Art, design, and technology — both inside and outside the Expo — can rise above politics. They offer a strong way to express Taiwan’s spirit and diversity.”

Speaking as a member of the Taiwanese community in Japan, Chen said, “Japan has deep respect for art and design. Cultural exchange that avoids political overtones is often more warmly received. Efforts rooted in everyday life and human connection can sometimes speak louder than rigid, state-driven narratives. For those of us living here, this kind of cultural diplomacy carries deep meaning.”

Through art, We TAIWAN has become a resonating voice for Taiwan on the international stage.