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Crossing the Boundaries of Culture and Art: DE International (Kyla Art Gallery) Impresses at Germany's Discovery Art Fair

Peter Chou


Crossing the Boundaries of Culture and Art: DE International (Kyla Art Gallery) Shines at Germany’s Discovery Art Fair

Reporter: Chen-Ching Chang, Taipei

DE International (Kyla Art Gallery) made a triumphant return to the prestigious Discovery Art Fair in Germany, standing out as the only Taiwanese exhibitor this year. Representing artists from New Zealand, Germany, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, the gallery captured attention amidst numerous local German galleries with its exceptional display of works. The exhibition was curated by two Zurich University alumni, Sven Krahl and Lao Zhong-Ming, whose minimalist presentation and profound concepts received widespread acclaim from attendees.

From local visitors to international art enthusiasts, the diverse yet harmonious collection of artworks resonated as a universal language that transcends culture and spoke stories within Frankfurt’s exhibition halls.

A Focus on Sustainability and Simplicity

On the opening day, many art critics were drawn to the works of German artist and co-curator Sven Krahl. His minimalist design language, characterized by bold lines and hand-drawn shapes, left a strong visual impact. Sven’s dedication to the concept of "re-resourcefulness" was evident in his choice of materials and production processes, reflecting his deep concern for environmental issues.

A local visitor commented, “Sven’s designs are not just visually captivating; they also serve as a poignant reminder of the global resource crisis. He conveys this complex and urgent issue with simplicity and tension through his lines and colors, leaving a lasting impression.”

Rising Stars from Taiwan and Beyond

High school photographer Camille Lin, a student at Taipei American School, also garnered significant attention. Having trained under 2011 Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer John J. Kim, Camille’s nostalgic and emotionally evocative images transported viewers back to cherished childhood memories. A visitor remarked, “Camille’s photos are like a developer for time, making us pause and reflect on the beauty of the past.”

Hong Kong sculptor May Yeung became a hot topic at the fair with her internationally acclaimed works, including awards such as the Youth Dream Practitioner Award and the MOCA Taipei Mika Ninagawa Public Choice Award. Curator Lao Zhong-Ming expressed, “May Yeung’s creations are more than art pieces; they are sanctuaries for the soul, inviting introspection and dialogue with nature.” Her role as the founder and director of the charity AoMYF (Art of My Youth Foundation) further highlights her dedication to empowering underprivileged communities through art.

A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Taiwanese artist Ku ChiChun, the first contemporary artist to receive a patent for innovative gesso techniques, was highly praised for his works. Curators noted, “Ku captures the spiritual interplay of color and texture, offering a renewed perspective on Eastern art.” With accolades such as the BoYi Gallery Emerging Artist Award and collaborations with brands like Uni-President, Häagen-Dazs, and CAMA Café, Ku seamlessly blends art with daily life, delivering transformative experiences to his audience.

New Zealand artist Theresa K.W. Lo also impressed with her vibrant ink paintings. Inspired by her keen observation of nature, Theresa’s intricate depictions of flora and insects breathe new life into traditional Chinese ink art, bridging cultural and artistic boundaries.

Global Recognition and Future Invitations

DE International’s participation in the Discovery Art Fair was met with resounding success. The gallery received an invitation from the organizers of Portugal's Art Fair and a formal invitation to next year’s event in Cologne.

Through its thoughtful curation and inspirational works, DE International demonstrated the limitless potential of artists from diverse backgrounds, leaving a profound impact on German audiences and international critics alike.

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