This exhibition, grounded in history, culture, and local produce, explores the possibilities of mythology in the 21st century. Mythology is not merely a product of imagination—it carries reflections of reality and humanity’s longing for the regenerative power of life. Through the creation of mythological figures, the application of technology, and artistic presentation, the exhibition conveys the idea of sustainability through myth.

The term Shen-You spiritual roaming (神遊) originally referred to a metaphysical encounter of the soul, but in the modern era—through technology—it transforms into an interactive experience. In Minnan (Hokkien) culture, the notion of “môo-sîn-á” (little spirits or deities) symbolizes awe and respect toward all living things, reminding us that even in an age of advanced technology, faith remains deeply rooted in culture. From Confucian temples honoring loyal heroes, to Buddhist bodhisattvas and arhats, and Daoist worship of celestial bodies—the fusion of Eastern and Western spiritual traditions reveals that gods have always journeyed alongside humankind, finding expression through architecture, sculpture, and painting.

Wufeng (historically known as Ataabu) has long been a meeting ground of indigenous and Han cultures since the Qing dynasty. With the rise of the Lin family’s prominence, the cultural initiatives of the Japanese colonial period, the democratic legacy of the Provincial Assembly, and the establishment of the Tadao Ando-designed Art Museum, the region has accumulated a profound humanistic foundation. Drawing upon its land, history, and local industries, this exhibition combines technological imagery to evoke reflection on both the past and the future.

In the opening section, ten virtual deities are created to embody historical and ecological narratives—such as the God of Liquor, born from the waters of Mount Hehuan and local brewing traditions; the Mushroom Spirit, representing the region’s mushroom industry; and the God of Earthquake, emerging from the trauma of the 921 earthquake. These mythic figures echo local memory and the philosophy of sustainability. The exhibition also features dynamic projections of Wufeng’s landscapes and, in the Traversing betwixt Heavens and Earth gallery, showcases works by CHEN Tingshih, HSIAO Chin, and Nick DONG, whose mystical aesthetics embody the vitality of the cosmos.

On the third floor, the section Path to the Cosmos of Ataabu presents works by Richard Lin and Michael Lin.Richard Lin, inspired by Laozi and Zhuangzi, returns to philosophical roots through minimalist abstraction, while Michael Lin infuses folk motifs and floral exuberance to celebrate radiant life. Together, they represent the pre-war and post-war artistic lineage of the Lin family of Wufeng, bridging local culture with a global perspective.

“Spiritual Roaming of Heavens & Earth at Ataabu: Art×Technology Exhibition” fuses land, history, culture, and contemporary art through technological expression, creating virtual deities and new mythological imagery that pursue timeless spiritual imagination—redefining Wufeng with a renewed cultural identity for the present and future.