ABORIGINAL ARTS

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About the Artisan

A native of the indigenous tribe of Wu-Lai, which is located in the northern part of Taiwan, Ms. Len-Chun (Migo) Kao blends traditional Atayal weaving patterns with creative personal designs. In 2001, after years of fine-weaving experience, she established her own art studio. The name of the studio--“Da Migo”—is composed of her own and her mother-in-law’s tribal names, both of whom are dedicated to the creation and passing-on of Atayal weaving arts.

Courage and Grace - the Atayal Tribe

Aboriginal tribes constitute only 2% of Taiwan’s 23 million people. There are 13 different tribes with 40 dialects, representing a rich cultural and lingual diversity. Apart from the Amis, the Atayal are the largest indigenous population in Taiwan. Dwelling in the mid-northern mountain areas of Taiwan, they are known for their courageous hunters and graceful weavers. Their artworks are characterized by interesting rhombic shapes, depicting the eyes of the ancestors who watch over the Atayal people, and the use of the color red, which symbolizes vitality, family bonds and loving protection.(Reference materials from the Council of Indigenous People of the Executive Yuan of Taiwan and ATAYAL)

Deer Beauty - Made of fine twined linen

Translated from the weaver’s paper sketch, this beguiling artwork reflects the hunting culture of the Atayal people.

US $175 - Frame: 23.25"W x 12.75"H x 1.75"D

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Sharing - Made of fine twined linen

Conveyed by the artisan’s playful geometry, and in step with the wisdom of the past, a trio holds hands to share the joy of dance. The artisan also wishes to share with viewers her own delight in the art of weaving.

US $175 - Frame: 23.25"W x 12.75"H x 1.75"D

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Under the Trees - Made of fine twined linen

In “Under the Trees,” variations of rhombic shapes represent the wise and watchful eyes of the ancestors. This is an impromptu, mixed media creation, combining linen and sea-shells.

US