The collection is a collaboration with TUNG-HUA Shadow Puppet Theater (1820). The show took place during the opening of Taipei Fashion Week Autumn-Winter 2023, at Nankunshen Daitian Temple (1662), a historical site in the city of Tainan in Taiwan.

Autumn-Winter 2023 Collection 'Puppet Shadow Play'

The source of inspiration comes from Tung-Hua Theater'sadapted “Journey to the West*" (16th century novel), its written scenarios and still images, the decorations and symbols from the puppet characters such as Sheng (male role), Dan (female role), Jing (painted face, powerful man), Muo (older men) and Chou (clown), as well as the know-how of the Theater. These elements are studied, deconstructed and reconstructed to create a visual illusion through techniques, materials, colors and decorations, a play of shadow and light. The collection highlights the heritage of the Theater and the nostalgia of shadow puppet play.

TUNG-HUA Shadow Puppet Theater

Traditional shadow puppetry is part of people's lives and reflects Taiwan's customs, religions, solar terms and rituals.

Shadow puppet shows are often performed in temples to thank Gods and entertain people. Established in 1820, Tung-Hua Shadow Puppet Theater is a family-run group registered with

the Kaohsiung City Government. It is the oldest shadow puppet troupe in Taiwan. The sixth generation director, Chang Fu-Kuo, is committed to preserving the traditional craft of puppetry.

Chang emphasizes the importance of innovation in the plot, puppets and set design. In addition, the puppeteers carve the puppets by hand, demonstrating artistry in both crafts and performance.