Study on the Interdisciplinary Performance and Exhibition Design Incorporating Folk Imagery

Chun-Ting Hsu

PhD Student, Institute of Industrial Design, National Cheng Kung University

Abstract

The cultural and creative industries are a form of non-traditional manufacturing industry that has drawn considerable attentions from the government, the public, and the academia. They require direct experience and close connection to the culture and everyday life of the people. While they share the common purpose with tourism of attracting visitors and boosting local economy, they differ remarkably in aspects of contents and expressions. This paper proposes the concept of “Musicgraphic images” as a form of interdisciplinary performance, and discusses its three stages: 1. collection and selection of subjects and themes; 2. content output; 3. performance and integration of related industries. “Musicgraphic images” is a new concept of interdisciplinary performance. The form blends music, dance, and computer animation, and its themes arise from folk tales and folk festivities. The purpose of this new concept is to highlight local culture, inspire a sense of shared recognition and pride in local culture, and boost local cultural tourism and the development of cultural and creative industries.

 “Musicgraphic images featuring Xuan Tian Shang Di (Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heavens)” is the second work of the “Musicgraphic images” series, which takes its theme from the ancient zodiac stories and the folk tale of “The Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heavens Fights the Turtle and Snake Monsters.” The work incorporates the images of the ancestors crossing the Taiwan Strait and overcoming hardship, their paths righteous even in dark times, always seeking light. The performance consists of orchestra, chorus, folk dance, and computer animation, making local culture familiar to the audience. Its imagery design is characteristic of the Taoist idea of “wu wei (doing nothing, or, natural action),” seeking to boost industries related to folk culture.