/ Letters to Comrades II: Dark Night Expedition

Letters to Comrades II: Dark Night Expedition captures the highs and lows of Shao Yung-Tien in his roles of both artist and entrepreneur, from September 2020 to May 2023. Amidst the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic and global conflicts, these years stand out as some of the 21st century's most difficult periods. Through the pages of Shao's Letters II, we witness the many external challenges faced by the entrepreneur, illustrating his unwavering resilience and determination as he navigates through the darkness, even in the absence of a clear path ahead. Despite these trials, his strength and resolve shine brightly, as he persistently seeks the light of life.

The book contains a collection of 181 handwritten letters, organized into five chapters: "Facing the Unknown," "Sustaining Resilience," "Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining," "Breaking Free," and "Ambition Knows No Bounds”. These serve as a reflection of Shao's contemplations over the past three years, as he bravely confronts the challenges of an uncertain environment and fearlessly leads his teams into the unknown with words that are bound to resonate with readers.

For Shao, creation is his medium of self-expression, akin to putting his ‘life narrative on canvas’. Shao's Letters II features 56 magnificent artworks by him, executed with vibrant colors and bold strokes. These pieces embody his insistence on unbridled self-expression, flowing naturally and evolving organically. What Shao conveys through his art is not just a visual representation but an unparalleled passion for confronting life head-on.

Left: The cover of Letters to Comrades II: Dark Night Expedition featuring a section from Shao’s artwork "The Light from the Deep Sea", set against a backdrop of midnight blue, symbolizing the ‘journey through the dark’. Even in the darkest times, an unwavering belief drives him forward, secure in the knowledge that the righteous path leads to victory for those who uphold the good.

Right: "The Light from the Deep Sea", Acrylic on Canvas, Φ66cm, 2022, Shao Yung-Tien