At an age when most people have long retired, Huang Yung-fu picked up a paintbrush and changed the fate of an entire community. Living alone in an aging military settlement in Taichung, Taiwan, the former soldier began covering the drab concrete walls around his home with bright birds, animals and cheerful human figures. What started as a way to pass the time soon transformed the abandoned neighbourhood into the world-famous Rainbow Village, attracting more than a million visitors each year and halting plans to demolish it. His colourful murals eventually spread across walls, pathways and doorways, creating an immersive open-air art destination celebrated by visitors from around the world. Affectionately known as "Rainbow Grandpa," Huang's extraordinary story remains one of the most inspiring examples of how creativity can preserve history, revive communities and turn an overlooked place into a global cultural landmark. According to BBC, he was 96 years old when his remarkable story captured worldwide attention.
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!
