Join us at C-LAB in Taipei for a talk on the Space II Archive, AAA’s forthcoming Research Collection, or watch it livestreamed on YouTube.
In the annals of Taiwan’s independent art scene, few spaces have commanded as much media attention as Space II. Its exhibitions garnered coverage not only in the arts (often intertwined with entertainment news), but occasionally even graced lifestyle sections, nestled amidst sensational crime reports. A trailblazer in multiple respects—the first cooperative gallery, the first avant-garde collective to exhibit in a public museum, and a catalyst for the emergence of terms like “alternative space” and “women’s art” in Taiwan—Space II and its members profoundly shaped the island’s contemporary art landscape. Their critical works served as a potent response to the societal transformations following the lifting of martial law. Such was their influence that renowned art critic Huang Hai-ming recognised Space II as the epicentre of a veritable “art movement”—a vibrant hub where young activists converged to discuss, create, and experiment, bringing the concerns of contemporary art into the mainstream.
In this talk, researcher Nicole Wang delves into AAA’s Space II Archive. Through a rich tapestry of exhibition files, correspondence, press clippings, self-published zines, photographs, documentary footage, and other historical materials—412 items in total—she traces the trajectory of Space II from 1989 to 1994. Joining her in conversation is esteemed curator and critic Huang Hai-ming, former director of the Taipei Fine Arts Museum. Together, they illuminate how Space II evolved into a documented art movement, leaving an indelible mark on Taiwan's cultural history.
This event is free and open to the public.
This event will be held in Mandarin.
Huang Hai-ming is a curator, critic, and key supporter of the development of socially engaged and alternative practices in Taiwan’s contemporary art scene since the 1990s. Huang oversaw the initial development of Huashan 1914 Creative Park (1998–2001), co-founded Nanhai Gallery (2003–16), spearheaded the annual Guling Street Book Fair & Creative Market, and served as the director of the Taipei Fine Arts Museum (2012–14). From 1996 to 2015, Huang was Professor in the Department of Art and the Department of Cultural and Creative Industries Management at National Taipei University of Education. In 2020, he curated Perforated City at the Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei. Huang holds a PhD in Aesthetics, Sciences, and Technology of the Arts from L'université Paris 8 Vincenne-Saint-Denis.
Nicole Wang is Researcher at Asia Art Archive, where she leads the Independent Art Spaces of Taiwan (IAST) project.
Organiser
Taiwan Contemporary Culture Lab (C-LAB)
Joint Organiser
Asia Art Archive
Sponsor
Kwang Hwa Information and Culture Center
