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（蘇榮仁）, 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（榴陽王三聖始祖公館）in Kaohsiung's Cieding District（茄萣區）, coastal scenes of Cieding and Singda Harbor（興達港）come to life in his hanging scrolls.

Photo by Cindy Lee

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