This year has seen an extraordinary unfolding of Taiwan’s cultural presence across Europe through the Taiwan Culture in Europe initiative, co-launched by the Ministry of Culture (MOC) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). With the collaboration of 30 overseas offices, more than 70 cultural events have been staged in 26 countries, weaving Taiwan’s artistic expressions into the diverse fabric of European society. Beyond the mere display of art, the initiative carries with it a deeper resonance, projecting Taiwan’s values of democracy, freedom, and multicultural coexistence into a continent that shares historical and political affinities with these ideals.
The first half of the year was marked by a vibrant showcase of Taiwanese artistry at some of Europe’s most celebrated platforms. Taiwanese artists and collectives made their presence felt at the Venice Biennale, an arena where contemporary art engages with global narratives; the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, where Taiwan’s literary creativity touched younger audiences; and Napoli Comicon, where Taiwanese illustrators and storytellers merged with Europe’s comic culture. Taiwan’s National Symphony Orchestra expanded these engagements into the realm of music with a tour through Austria and Lithuania, while the Vox Nativa Choir brought a distinctly Taiwanese voice to audiences in the Vatican, Germany, and Austria. These appearances not only highlighted technical mastery but also revealed the unique aesthetic and cultural depth that Taiwan contributes to the world stage.
The initiative gains further momentum in the latter half of the year with landmark exhibitions. At the Czech National Museum in Prague, “100 Treasures, 100 Stories: Treasures from the National Palace Museum” runs from September 11 to December 31, offering a rare glimpse of 131 artifacts and interactive digital experiences. The famed “Jadeite Cabbage,” one of Taiwan’s most beloved national treasures, is among the highlights, symbolizing both the artistry and cultural heritage preserved through centuries. In November, Paris’s Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac, in collaboration with Taiwan’s National Palace Museum, will unveil an exhibition themed on the dragon, gathering together paintings, manuscripts, and cultural relics to explore one of Asia’s most enduring mythological figures.
Beyond exhibitions, Taiwan’s performing arts are set to traverse the continent, with U-Theatre’s meditative performances, the National Chinese Orchestra Taiwan’s musical journeys, and the rhythmic energy of Ju Percussion Group all embarking on European tours. Complementing these flagship tours, Taiwan’s representative offices across Europe will curate art exhibitions, ensuring a decentralized yet unified cultural presence across diverse cities and audiences.
The Taiwan Culture in Europe initiative is more than cultural diplomacy; it is a dialogue between societies. Through the universal languages of art, music, and storytelling, Taiwan not only presents its own heritage and contemporary creativity but also affirms its place as a partner in the ongoing European conversation about values, identity, and the role of culture in fostering mutual understanding. This year’s program makes clear that Taiwan’s engagement with Europe is not episodic but enduring, a carefully built bridge where artistry and ideals travel hand in hand.