Wudengyi Art Museum

This building was built in 1875 and designed by Dr. George Leslie Mackay. It was originally served as a residence that accommodated the missionaries at the time. Because of its white exterior paint, it gained its nickname—Little White House. It is a beautiful Spanish style house with natural rock facing. The roof truss and the floor are all made of solid Chinese fir wood, which can resist rotting and last longer. During World War II, this building was rented by Tait & Co. Merchant House. During their stay, they built the second-story addition. Aletheia University later converted it into their principle’s residence and renamed it ’Missionary House’ in memory of the missionaries. In 2021, our museum settles in Tamsui and (the Tamsui Historic Site of New Taipei City) and renovates the vacant ’Missionary House’. We reserve the exterior wall of the major building and install lights, exhibition walls and the automatic ventilation system. Our goal is to exhibit all the works of Taiwanese artist Wu Deng-yi and create an international art platform to promote and enhance the art and value of contemporary color ink.

The Narrow Gate

When we were renovating this building, we found this sealed door. With a dome shaped design, we know that the door must have been the front house door. Therefore, we decide to unseal it and use it as the entrance of Wu Dengyi Contemporary Art Park. For thousands of years, the missionaries believe that Jesus urges His listeners to “strive to enter through the narrow gate.” However, doing so will take strength and discipline. That door is not only narrow but not easy to be seen. We hope our visitors would have some special feelings while going through this narrow gate. It seems that this single door connects two different worlds.

Qing Dynasty Swallowtail Ridge House

Walking in Wu Dengyi Contemporary Art Park, this long and skinny brick Chinese house would catch your eyes. It is said that this is where Dr. George Leslie Mackay used to live while his own bungalow were under construction. This traditional Qing Dynasty brick house with swallowtail ridge was long served as a warehouse. Now, our cultural and creative shop would be in this house. We look forward to meeting people from all around the world, telling the stories of our art park and providing everyone our best souvenirs.

The Window of Oxford

From the devastated shaft lock, it is not hard to detect that this building has been used as the entrance back in time. The door was partially sealed but a four pane window with green glaze was remained. The green glaze window are from design of Dr. George Leslie Mackay. We reserve this part of the building and name it “the Window of Oxford” to link the past and the present.

The Daytime Attic

This white wooden attic is built in the Japanese Colonial Period. In addition to the Sea Viewing Platform, this is another spot for us to enjoy the view. Also, this is definitely the best choice for business meetings and private banquets. With the dark-colored paint, the whole room is coved with romantic atmosphere. The first floor of the art museum comprises tile-roofed houses and the main building, creating an enchanting outdoor space that surrounds the atrium. Enhancing the ambiance of this area is a bread tree, planted simultaneously with the building, providing a delightful green shade. With its white walls, black tiles, and triangular wooden beam structure, the townhouses are divided into five distinct and independent spaces. These versatile spaces serve a range of purposes, including art workshops, exhibitions, business activities, and catering. Their multi-functionality allows for diverse and engaging experiences within the museum’s premises.

The Artistic Yard

In the front and back yards, there are several ancient trees which are personally picked by Dr. George Leslie Mackay. The old camphor tree on the lawn cuts a massive and intriguing figure, with thick and contorted branches. Its spreading canopy and crown provide people shelter from sunlight. For the centuries, this camphor tree sits and sees the changes in the surroundings.

The Soaring Stairs

The Chinese saying “Soaring up in nine miles” is where we get the ideas to name the stairs. This stairs leads to the top floor. This steel spiral staircase consists of a central column to support the threads. Beside the old oak trees, the Soaring Stairs is a great spot for taking photos and viewing the yard.

The Sea Viewing Platform

There are two platforms in Wu Dengyi Contemporary Art Park. Walking straight up the Soaring stairs, you would be on the Sea Viewing Platform. Over here, you can experience the illusion of an infinite horizon. In the late afternoon, you may also have a glimpse the well- know Tamsui Sunset. Having a glass of wine with the beautiful sunset would be the perfect enjoyment.