Spectrosynthesis: First LGBTQ Art Exhibition in Asia at MOCA Taipei

The Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei (MOCA) hosts 'Spectrosynthesis: Asian LGBTQ Issues and Art Now,' the first institutional exhibition in Asia dedicated to LGBTQ themes in contemporary art. The show follows Taiwan's Constitutional Court ruling on May 23, 2017, recognizing same-sex marriage rights, marking a milestone for LGBTQ equality in Asia. Curated by Sean Hu, the exhibition spans 50 years of Sino-Taiwanese art, featuring 22 artists including Hou Chun-Ming, Jimmy Ong, and Xiyadie. Works address equality, identity, and media attention to gender issues, intentionally not disclosing artists' sexual orientations to emphasize that orientation is secondary to artistic merit. The exhibition is organized with the Sunpride Foundation, founded by Hong Kong businessman Patrick Sun Kai-yit, who plans to bring the show to Hong Kong. The title 'Spectrosynthesis' combines 'spectrum of light' and 'photosynthesis,' evoking the rainbow symbol of the gay community. The exhibition also carries political implications, challenging China's conservative values and Taiwan's status as a 'rebel province.'