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White Uniform No. 2

Explore Hou I-ting’s ‘White Uniform No. 2’: A monochrome woodblock print depicting a sandwich within a striking gold frame. Reflecting Taiwanese culture & colonial history.

Taiwanese artist hou i-ting explores women's labor & technology through video, performance, & altered photography. Her 'White Uniform' series examines human connection and repetitive tasks.

Giclée / Art Print

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Total Price

$ 69

reproduction

White Uniform No. 2

Giclée / Art Print

Reproduction Size

-

Total Price

$ 69

In ‘White uniform’ 2017, Hou I-Ting examines women’s work in creating a Taiwanese variant of the bento box. Known as ‘bendong’ in Taiwanese Hokkien and ‘biantang’ in Mandarin, these boxed lunches have persisted as a cultural legacy of Japanese occupation. Consisting of a short film and a series of photographs, the work was produced in collaboration with the employees of the Taiwan Railways Administration kitchen in Qidu, near Taipei.The film focuses on a group of women as they use stencils to finely cut sheets of seaweed to be placed over rice, reproducing historical designs from the covers of ‘bendong’ boxes. These designs, documented in the accompanying photographs, were created during the Japanese colonial period (1895–1945), a time when Taiwan’s railway was intensively developed to facilitate the transportation of natural resources for export. Most designs are innocuous, their Japanese text advertising sandwiches, chicken lunches or bananas from Taichung; however, others are more ambiguous and include wartime propaganda.Intercutting historical footage of rail travel with interviews with staff members and their supervisor, Hou’s film recalls the tendency of the mind to wander during long journeys and repetitive work. ‘White uniform’ addresses the intricacies of sexual difference and labour relations, colonialism and national identity, collective history and personal memory, all through the simple enjoyment of a packed lunch on a long train ride.Exhibited in

Artist Biography

Hou I-ting: Exploring Labor and Reflection Through Hybrid Media

Hou I-ting, born in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, represents a compelling voice within contemporary Taiwanese art. Her artistic practice transcends conventional boundaries, deftly blending video, performance, and altered photography to investigate themes of women’s labor and the interplay between human experience and technological advancement—a preoccupation that speaks powerfully to the evolving landscape of modern society. Currently residing in Taipei, I-ting's work consistently seeks to provoke contemplation on societal structures and personal narratives.
  • Early Influences & Artistic Formation: While biographical details remain relatively sparse, I-ting’s artistic journey began amidst a burgeoning interest in visual culture and experimental filmmaking. Her formative years were marked by exposure to diverse artistic traditions—both Taiwanese and international—which undoubtedly shaped her aesthetic sensibilities.
  • Technique & Conceptual Approach: I-ting distinguishes herself through her meticulous attention to detail and her willingness to embrace unconventional methods. She favors layered photographic techniques combined with subtle manipulations, creating images that hover between reality and illusion. Her use of hatching—a technique rooted in woodblock printing—adds textural depth and reinforces the symbolic resonance of her compositions.

The White Uniform Series: Colonial Echoes & Human Connection

Perhaps I-ting’s most recognizable body of work is her ‘White Uniform’ series, a poignant exploration of memory and labor within the context of Taiwanese history. The prints depict simple sandwiches encased in opulent gold frames—a striking juxtaposition that immediately draws attention to the complexities of cultural heritage. This conceptual framework deliberately confronts viewers with the legacy of colonial rule, prompting reflection on how historical narratives continue to shape present-day perceptions.

Notable Achievements & Critical Recognition

I-ting’s artistic vision has garnered considerable acclaim within Taiwan's art community. Her work has been exhibited extensively in galleries and museums across the island, establishing her as a significant figure in contemporary Taiwanese visual culture. Critics have praised her ability to synthesize disparate influences—from Japanese printmaking traditions to digital media—into cohesive artistic statements.

Symbolism & Recurring Themes

Throughout her oeuvre, I-ting consistently engages with themes of repetition and transformation. Her photographic explorations often depict mundane subjects—such as retail spaces—rendered surreal through reflections and layered imagery. These artworks invite viewers to consider the significance of seemingly insignificant details within broader social contexts. The recurring motif of ‘white’ – referencing uniforms and purity – underscores her preoccupation with notions of identity, labor, and societal expectations.

Looking Ahead: Artistic Legacy & Future Directions

Hou I-ting continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to exploring challenging ideas through innovative media. Her ongoing engagement with themes of memory, labor, and technological influence suggests that her artistic legacy will endure as she navigates new creative territories—solidifying her position as one of Taiwan’s most distinctive voices in contemporary art.
hou i-ting

hou i-ting

1979 - , Taiwan

Quick Facts

  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Video art & Altered photography
  • Date Of Birth: 1979
  • Full Name: hou i-ting
  • Nationality: Taiwanese
  • Notable Artworks:
    • White Uniform No. 2
    • White Uniform No. 5
    • Contemplating Series
  • Place Of Birth: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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