Chao Er Dai

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Well

POST WINGS

"Art Slave" is not someone who is exploited or oppressed, but rather someone who willingly dedicates their life to art. Before creation, art is not a tool but a master; the creator is not a master but a servant. Zhao Erdai understands that true creation has never been about control, but rather a long-term submission—submission to brush and ink, form, time, and inner calls.

"Residence" is not a temporary stay, nor is it a place for display, but a space for finding one's grounding and purpose. Here, the creator need not explain or cater to the world; they only need to coexist with art. The world can be noisy, fame and fortune can be distant, but as long as one can still create, there is a place to reside.

"Art Slave Residence" is the original name that Mr. Zhao Erdai gave to his residence and creative space in Penghu—essentially the predecessor of today's Penghu Erdai Art Museum. This name is not self-deprecating, but a declaration of self-positioning: before art, he is willing to set aside worldly identities and remain vigilant as a creator. It is a humility imbued with integrity, and a lifelong commitment to the belief in creation.

Life may not be entirely free, but at least I choose to be enslaved by art. This is not sacrifice, but a calmness after accepting fate; it is not humility, but a loyalty that surpasses worldly success.

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