About

The exhibition “Lines of Possibilities: Taiwanese Rush Weaving” has been specially  curated for London Craft Week 2021. It traces the practice’s origins, starting with the  memories woven with rush by the households of Yuanli, Miaoli, through to recent  innovations in the industry, and the emergence of brand creation and cross-field  collaborations.  

Taiwanese rush weaving has a history reaching back over 300 years, originating from the small township of Yuanli in northwestern Taiwan. Playing host to this unique  industry, Yuanli is known as the hometown of Taiwanese rush. Handicrafts such as  rush-woven mats and hats were the among Taiwan’s top three exports during the  Japanese colonial era and the post-World War II period. However, as time went on,  Taiwan’s rapid economic development and the rise of mass produced goods on the  island nation caused a decline in the rush weaving industry. However, in recent years, a  younger generation of talented young artisans have returned to Yuanli, sparking a  renewed interest in this traditional industry and reviving the craft of rush weaving. A new  page in the story of Taiwanese rush weaving has begun, giving the craft global  recognition. 

Taiwanese rush weaving has been considered as an intangible cultural asset. It goes  beyond time, location, and material, remaining an unshakable traditional craft with the  passing of time. Taiwanese rushes resemble a common language in traditional Taiwanese culture, providing fresh perspectives on the history of Taiwan. As time goes  by, rush weaving has become a shared memory of Taiwanese people.  

“We tell the story of the Taiwanese culture through the craft of rush weaving”. 

Associated with Taiwan Yuan-Li Handiwork Association and supported by the Ministry  of Culture, Taiwan.