00:01Looking around Taiwan's urban landscape reveals a unique aspect of its homes and buildings,
00:05decorative metal grilles covering the windows.
00:08What once may have been functional to keep homes and stores safe from break-ins
00:11has become an expression of artistry.
00:27Window frames can reflect cultural influences, the owner's sensibilities, or the craftsperson who made it.
00:42The traditional window frames have become emblematic of local culture
00:45and have inspired young people to integrate the patterns into their own work.
00:57But this traditional practice is also facing challenges.
01:00There are now fewer metal workers able to create these grilles,
01:02making it difficult to replace aging or rusted ones.
01:05With fewer skilled artisans and rising labor costs,
01:08replacing old frames is more expensive than many store owners or residents are willing to pay.
01:12Finally, new developments and high-rise buildings have no need for these grilles.
01:16So as old homes get torn down and replaced with modern housing,
01:19it's becoming rarer to see such artwork.
01:21Because now it's a big city.
01:24It's not easy to see these things.
01:25So these things, to talk about Taiwanese people,
01:28it's very obvious in your mind.
01:30It's very obvious.
01:31The artists are not willing to spend money.
01:33The artists are not willing to pay this money.
01:34We don't have a stage of such a show.
01:36It's not easy to do that.
01:37Despite that, the practice lives on.
01:39Studios run workshops so people can see the craft that goes into forging the frames,
01:43apprentices continue to learn, and affection for Taiwan's bygone days remains.
01:47Devon Tsai and Larry Siano for Taiwan Plus.
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