President Chen Shui-bian on February 5, 2006 encouraged the public to sense the significance and vitality of traditional Taiwanese arts, through which cultural and aesthetic innovation shall be created.
President Chen made the statement at the Lucky Dogs Bring a Year of Good Luck Exhibition, held at the Art Gallery, Office of the President. The exhibition which runs from January 3 to March 31, was organized by the Council for Cultural Affairs and the National Taiwan Craft Research Institute.
"In order to express the unique aestheticism of Taiwan's life," President Chen said, "the exhibition aims to blend the spirit of traditional arts into everyday life, elevate cultural tastes, and stimulate public interests for art appreciation."
"Through the exhibition," he added, "it is anticipated that the beauty of the new Taiwanese culture, created, shared and enjoyed by the people on the island, will be treasured."
President Chen also expressed his deepest respect to art masters on traditional culture from every corner of the island, because the subjectivity and charm pertaining to the Taiwanese people have gradually been realized.
"The coming Lantern Festival is the apex of the Lunar New Year," said the president. "I wish Taiwan citizens an exciting holiday and good luck!"