Social Sciences and Traditional Crafts
A strong foundation in the history and culture of Taiwan is essential for the study of cultural heritage preservation. Therefore undergraduate students attend classes in Taiwanese history and in Chinese art history. They also receive a sound education in philosophy, the social sciences and anthropology.
Undergraduate students also have the opportunity to lean one or more traditional Taiwanese crafts. These crafts involve artistic traditions such as clay sculpture modelling, woodcarving and lacquer-ware, and decorative arts, e.g. ceramics and basket weaving. This important component of the Bachelor's course allows students to learn more about how cultural objects are created and how their construction can influence future deterioration, as well as keeping alive a tradition of Taiwan's unique blend of Chinese and local artisan culture. The school employs several, nationally recognised, crafts-persons as external teachers for this part of the teaching program. Naturally, some students show a greater aptitude and interest in a particular medium that allows them to develop their artistic skills beyond what is required for completion of their coursework. |
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Anthropology and Folklore
The history of Taiwan's economic and social development is expressed in the tangible remains of local industrial heritage - either as buildings and infrastructure related to sugar production or as individual buildings such as distilleries, railway buildings and public buildings. Their preservation through reuse is and important area for research in the Department of Cultural Heritage Conservation.
Taiwan also has a rich heritage of intangible cultural heritage. Many traditional handcrafts still survive in Taiwan and traditional industries have been adapted incorporating modern materials and techniques. Tainan in particular retains a strong tradition in needlework and the production of ceremonial banner for use in temples. Taiwan is home to a rich religious and folklore tradition. The Department of Cultural Heritage Conservation has been involved in several projects to research and support these traditional industries and practices. One of the more unique aspects of Taiwan's cultural life related to the many groups of indigenous peoples and their traditions of dress, festivals and history. |
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