Prior to major Han immigration to Taiwan in the 17th century, Indigenous populations had been living in Taiwan for thousands of years. Through changing eras, people of a vast range of backgrounds arrived in and immigrated to Taiwan. A history of colonialism caused Indigenous peoples to lose their culture, drifting away from their roots. Today, many Indigenous Taiwanese grow up in the big cities, distancing themselves from their traditional languages, customs, and way of life. 

Partnering with Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines, the Fashion Department at Taiwan’s Shih Chien University is transcending languages, ethnicities, and generations, through its unique program connecting the young Taiwanese generations to the traditions of Indigenous culture. Students are introduced to two weaving teachers from the Atayal people, elders Taka Tana and Yabun Pasang, learning about Indigenous history, culture, and traditional Atayal weaving. Through fashion design, students build respect for Indigenous cultures in Taiwan, building appreciation for its preservation through their creativity and the media. Today, more and more Taiwanese people are growing aware and concerned about the issues Taiwan’s Indigenous peoples and their valuable cultures face. Through their fusion of modern fashion trends and the age-old works of Indigenous arts, the role of Indigenous culture in Taiwanese society is changing – creating a whole new cultural DNA in Taiwan!