On 11 November 2024, in anticipation of the exhibition ‘CITY PATTERN: Textile Designs of Yang Tzu-Hsing & The Story of Gimgoanheng,’ MATDOT Art Center hosted a compelling artist talk by Taiwanese textile designer Yang Tzu-Hsing. Hsing shared his journey of transforming Gimgoanheng, his family’s century-old fabric store in Tainan, Taiwan, into a contemporary design brand, bridging tradition and modernity.

Opening his presentation, Hsing described his work since 2022 to revitalise Gimgoanheng by delving into family history and local sources to create designs that reflect Tainan’s unique identity. His mission is not only to revitalise the historic store but also to promote the cultural heritage of his hometown through design.

Hsing then outlined his creative process, explaining how he weaves Taiwanese cultural elements into his vibrant patterns. Each piece embodies a different facet of Taiwanese heritage, telling stories that invite viewers to reflect on their own connections to culture. He emphasised the importance of rediscovering the narratives behind everyday objects, encouraging people to find personal meaning in a world often overwhelmed with information.

The session concluded with a lively discussion, sparking insights into how fine art and commercial art can merge to create works that inspire and engage. Attendees left with a deep appreciation for Hsing’s vision and dedication to cultural storytelling.