Community News — November 13, 2025”
Caption: Lu A-Fu’s oil painting “Message to a Harbor’s Heart” fetches a high price at a New York auction.
(By Special Correspondent Su Jun-De in Taichung)
Taiwanese philanthropic painter Lu A-Fu was invited to take part in the 10th Taiwan Art Expo on August 29, where he contributed an oil painting titled “Spring Dawn at Mount Fuji” to a charity auction. The piece drew intense interest and ultimately sold for the highest bid of the event, stunning attendees across the venue.
This remarkable moment also caught the attention of New York gallery representative Mr. Thomas VanDyke, who arranged for Lu’s work to appear in an upcoming auction in New York. The artist’s rustic, locally inspired oil-painting style captivated viewers and became a highlight of the exhibition, eventually being acquired at a premium price by collector Mrs. Fang.
Caption: Artist Lu A-Fu meets with New York gallery representative Mr. Thomas VanDyke.
The old saying “life begins at 70” finds a living example in Taiwanese painter Lu A-Fu. Determined to fulfill a childhood dream, Lu began learning to paint at age 70. After five years of rigorous practice, his brush has brought vibrant landscapes to life, coloring what he calls his “second spring” with energy and brilliance. His works have since been featured in dozens of group and solo exhibitions, earning the admiration and steady support of collectors.
In August, New York gallery representative Mr. Thomas VanDyke flew to Taipei specifically to meet Lu and discuss opportunities for collaboration. That meeting ultimately paved the way for Lu’s paintings to be showcased—and successfully sold—at an auction in New York, drawing significant attention from the international art community.
Lu’s oil paintings are marked by stylistic diversity and a welcoming openness. His travels around the world have exposed him to a variety of cultures and landscapes, enriching the substance of his artistic expression. Born in Nanzhou Township of Pingtung, Lu carries a deep affection for his hometown; his works are infused with a strong sense of local identity, earthy warmth, and humanistic care—qualities that define him as a deeply grounded and heartfelt painter of Taiwan’s rural spirit.
Caption: A corner of Lu’s painting studio in Taipei.