Good Day 1984

“Your Instagram username is Viga1984. Are you born in 1984?”

“Yes!”

“Ah! So we are both turning 40 this year!”

After making that statement, I quickly apologized, realizing that mentioning someone’s age can be sensitive. However, Viga burst into laughter and exclaimed, “I’m still 39!” Viga, born and raised in Taiwan, moved to Kyoto, Japan to pursue her studies in painting after completing her college education. It has been 16 years since then.

“16 years! I’ve also been working for 16 years. Have you been working as an artist all this time?” Recently, Viga was invited by San Gallery to present a collection of 43 paintings, which marked her first significant solo exhibition in Tainan. “Yes, both Tainan and Kyoto are ancient cities. I have a fondness for antiquity. Through my artwork, I want to convey the similarities and differences between these two places, incorporating elements such as lighthouses, trees, and boats…”

“Do you think people born in 1984 tend to be particularly kind-hearted? And do you think they see the world differently compared to those born in the 90s or 70s?” I don’t mean to be boastful, but I see this quality of kindness being reflected in Viga’s artwork. Even as she approaches 40 years old, her paintings continue to radiate innocence, happiness, and contentment. “It is from a kind heart that such delightful artwork can be created.” Interestingly, the people I personally know who were born in 1984 often exhibit a more straightforward and pure outlook on the world. I can’t help but wonder if this perspective is influenced by the positive experiences they encountered during their formative years.

“Really? It does sound like it, the way you put it! My world isn’t complicated at all, and the people around me are all very kind.” It was somewhat unexpected, but Viga revealed a sense of excitement and affirmation. “I want to paint the landscapes and things I love. Those are the scenes that evoke a profound sense of tranquility within me.” Yet, deep within my heart, I couldn’t help but exclaim, “There’s more to it than that!”

“Perhaps you haven’t realized it, but throughout these 16 years, your paintings have been infused with the very values you long to express. While I use words, you use your paintings to convey to the world the values that you and I both share; it’s kindness and serenity.” At first, we may be captivated by the simplicity and childlike charm of the paintings. However, as we immerse ourselves in the collection of 43 artworks, a deep sense of warmth and emotion embraces us, as if the paintings themselves softly whisper, “The world is lovely and brimming with beauty.”

“Exactly!” Artists utilize their hands to breathe life into their artwork, encapsulating all that they wish to express within each piece. When Viga made the journey from Taiwan to Kyoto to study painting, she received advice from an illustration teacher suggesting that illustrators need not develop their own style, but rather, should focus on drawing whatever the client demands. At that very moment, Viga realized that her goal was not to become an excellent illustrator.

“In Japan, there exists a clear distinction between illustrators and painters. Illustration refers to works created for specific purposes, such as depicting elements in books or fulfilling packaging requirements. On the other hand, painters convey their personal emotions purely through their artwork.” It is true that cuteness or suitability for packaging does not define the essence of illustration; the emphasis remains on the creative purpose. Viga’s explanation reinforces my admiration for artists because, ultimately, it is an individual’s values that shape the core of their artwork.

“You, born in 1984 in Taiwan, and myself, born in 1984 in Hong Kong, coincidentally crossed paths after nearly four decades. Despite living far from our hometowns, we both possess a genuine appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. I have observed your habit of carrying a teapot and kettle, sharing tea with others, and finding solace in moments of relaxation. Though uncertain about the source of this profound belief—it seems that this practice reflects your response to the inherent goodness that exists in the world,”  I took the liberty to explain some of Viga’s habits.

“I prefer tea over coffee, and lately, I’ve become fascinated by Chinese orchestras. While Western orchestras get a lot of attention, Chinese orchestras are amazing too. I want to share the beauty of Chinese orchestras with everyone through my paintings.” We both aspire to share the beauty of this world through our work, and whenever we talk about things we truly appreciate, it brings us a deep sense of contentment.

“To find satisfaction in a single day is to bid it ‘Good day’.” Her paintings, her studio, Biga in Kyoto, and her infectious smile all remind me of what she once said: “The world is so lovely; and it’s lovely because of all of you!”