The University of Scranton’s Hope Horn Gallery closed its presentation of “Taiwan Sublime: Four Photography Masters’ Visions of the Treasure Island” Oct. 7 with a guest lecture from Jeremy Hu, co-founder and curator of the Works Gallery in New York, N.Y.

Hu’s talk focused on select pieces from each the four distinct series displayed in the exhibit.

Liu Chen-hsiang’s “In Passion – Heavenly Feast of the Performing Arts,” explored Taiwan’s modern and traditional performing arts, ranging from classical Taiwanese Opera to puppet shows. Backstage photos of the performances were also included.

“(Backstage photographs) are always the most touching,” Hu said. “There are so many emotional and touching moments which you can never see on stage.”

Chi Po-lin’s “In Soaring – An Elevated Vision of Natural Taiwan,” was an aerial view of Taiwan, showcasing pieces such as the Rice Bowl and the Taipei 101 building. Huang Ting-sheng’s “In Folkways – Melding the Mundane and the Celestial,” focused on the religious festivals and traditions found throughout Taiwan. Chen Chih-hsiung’s “In Interfaces – Rhythms of Nature and Humanity,” was a view of Taiwan’s natural landscapes, including photographs from locations such as Sun Moon Lake and the Taroko Gorge.

Hu, who was born in Taiwan, said he is always amazed by the beauty of his home country.

“I’m always stunned by how beautiful these photographs are,” Hu said. “(Before seeing the photographs) I never knew Taiwan was that beautiful.”

After the presentation, a reception, which was as part of downtown Scranton’s First Fridays, was held at The Horn Hope Gallery.

“Taiwan Sublime” had been on display since Sept. 12 in The Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. The next exhibit to be featured at the gallery, “The Sherwin Series: Works by Joelle Dietrick,” will run from Oct. 24 through Nov. 18.

The Hope Horn Gallery is open Sunday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. For additional information, call 941-4214.