Light and Sound

KCN, “Light and Sound”
February 7th – March 8th, 2026.

Haven Gallery is honored to present Taiwan based artist, KCN, for his third show, entitled “Light and Sound”, at the gallery. “Light and Sound” features ten new graphite drawings that explore the scientific principles of energy through both sound and light waves, as they take on different behaviors and forms. The artist uses this branch of knowledge to continue his exploration of individual and societal identity as the influence of multiculturalism continues through historical into modern day. Through the lens of particle physics, an empirical approach to the overall applications of energy in their multitude of forms is examined, documented and reflected in an artistic genesis of both KCN’s own identity and artistic oeuvre.

About  KCN
KCN, originating from a Taiwanese farming family, has held various roles such as a manga artist, game art designer, illustrator, and commercial designer. Influenced by the lifestyle of grandparents during Taiwan’s pre-World War II Japanese era, and growing up in the industrial city of Kaohsiung, the artist’s creations reflect a blend of Japanese pre-war culture and steampunk aesthetics.

Currently focused on oil and pencil paintings, all artistic skills are self-taught. With a passion for both traditional and modern Japanese culture, KCN aspires to create a unique artistic worldview based on personal experiences and a distinctive style.

KCN was born Wu Hsuyao in 1972 in Beidou, Changhua county, Taiwan. He debuted as a cartoonist, with two cartoons, “Kirin the Beast” and “Journey to the West”, and then turned to illustration and game art work. For a long time, Taiwan’s pre-war history has been the main axis of his creation. His works have been popular with painters in Taiwan and Japan. Over the years, he made hundreds of artworks. KCN’s grandfather was a renowned person in the village of Beidou, and was loved by the villagers for his integrity and affection. KCN was deeply inspired by grandfather’s teaching. After the ban on “Taiwanology” was lifted,

KCN read many books about Taiwan’s history. He deeply understood the social atmosphere before World War II and the special emotional ties between Taiwanese and Japanese. His illustrations were also based on the suppressed history and characters of the Japanese colonial era in Taiwan (1895-1945), and his enthusiasm has also inspired many people from all over the world, possibly because of the special historical and emotional bond between Taiwan and Japan. His works have great resonance in Japan and the world.