Every spring in Taiwan a section of the major north-south freeway is cordoned off as millions of butterflies begin a 400km migration to breeding grounds in the north of the island. At its peak 11,500 butterflies per minute cross the freeway. Only two species of butterflies undertake such a major journey to breed, Taiwan’s Purple Milkweed butterfly and a species in Greece.
Thousands of Purple Milkweed butterflies have migrated to Chengchih University in Taipei, clinging to the walls, ceiling and windows of the Art Centre Library.
Transitory, mysterious and fugitive, butterflies represent change, memory and rebirth. A native American legend says if you have a secret wish, capture a butterfly and whisper it your wish. On releasing the butterfly the secret is safe and the wish will be granted. |