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Thesis Abstract

The goal of my project is to create an animation
that combines the classical shadowgraph puppetry art
form with a contemporary narrative and computer
technology. As a new media resolution, the animation
could appeal to the young generation’s media. It is my
wish that this project serves as encouragement for the
inclusion of traditional elements in subsequent
Taiwanese films.

I would like to revive the disappearing art of Taiwanese
shadowgraphpuppetry by means of computer technology.
In order to promote this ancient art toTaiwanese youth,
I would include a narrative that generates conversation
about therelationship between external puppetry art form
and the internal human issue of freewill. In southern
Taiwan shadowgraph puppetry is not only performed in
religious activities, but also for festival celebrations,
weddings, and funerals.

Because of the cultural differences caused by geographical
distributions in the past, shadowgraph puppetry only
flourished in southern Taiwan. People living in the northern
areas of Taiwan lost the opportunity to enjoy the art. As a
young person from northern Taiwan, I have never seen the
ancient art. Furthermore, along with the changes in the
media environment, the Taiwanese youth now have their
own affinity with new media, such as computers and films.


The popularity of shadowgraph puppetry began to decline
in mid-1950s because Taiwan at large changed its media
habits from traditional outdoor drama to television and
movies. Today, only five shadowgraph troupes exist in
southern Taiwan, and, with the cooperation of the
Taiwanese government they are all devoted to shadowgraph
education. Another reason for the decline of shadowgraph
is the reality of many different people living in many
different regions of Taiwan who have never experienced
or enjoyed the art form and are all unconcerned about
its longevity. I wish to regain our lost cultural affinity.