Xu Wen-Long: Music and Business in Perfect Duet

Xu Wen-Long (許文龍, 1928-2023), founder of Chimei Group, was Taiwan's most artistically gifted business legend. He not only built a commercial empire spanning petrochemicals, electronics, and food industries but was also a passionate violinist and significant art collector. His creation of Chimei Museum became an important cultural landmark in Taiwan, embodying an entrepreneur's profound commitment to social and cultural responsibility.

The Music-Inspired Entrepreneur

Born in Tainan in 1928, Xu Wen-Long showed a deep love for music from childhood. Despite modest family circumstances, he persisted in learning violin - a passion that would accompany him throughout life. Xu often said that music taught him rhythm and coordination, qualities that later became essential abilities in his business management.

During his youth, Xu worked while self-studying business knowledge. He keenly observed Taiwan's industrialization trends and decided to enter the plastics industry. In 1959, he founded Chimei Industries, specializing in plastic raw materials and related products.

Building the Chimei Empire

In the 1960s, Xu led Chimei Industries through rapid development, growing from a small plastic factory into a major petrochemical enterprise. He adopted a vertical integration strategy, comprehensively deploying from raw material production to end applications, establishing a complete industrial chain.

Chimei Group's business territory later expanded to electronics, optoelectronics, medical care, food, and other fields. Particularly in the liquid crystal display industry, Chimei Electronics once became a major global panel manufacturer. Xu's business philosophy emphasized "quality first, reputation paramount," helping establish Chimei's excellent international reputation.

A Lifelong Love Affair with the Violin

Despite busy commercial affairs, Xu never abandoned his love for music. He was not only an excellent violin performer but also an important instrument collector. He collected hundreds of precious antique violins, including several Stradivarius masterpieces.

Xu often played violin at corporate events or charity concerts, believing music could purify the soul and was an important component of corporate culture. He also supported music education, sponsoring many talented young musicians to study abroad.

Art Collection as Cultural Mission

Beyond violins, Xu was also a significant Western art collector. His collection included classical paintings, sculptures, and crafts, particularly European artworks from the 13th to 18th centuries. These collections later became important holdings of Chimei Museum.

Xu's collecting motivation wasn't merely personal interest but carried a sense of cultural promotion mission. He hoped that through his collection, Taiwanese people could access world-class artworks and elevate overall cultural standards.

Chimei Museum's Cultural Contribution

In 1992, Xu established the Chimei Cultural Foundation and began planning Chimei Museum. After years of effort, Chimei Museum officially opened in 2015 at Tainan Metropolitan Park, offering free admission to the public. This museum not only displays Xu's collection but has become an important cultural and educational venue in southern Taiwan.

Chimei Museum's architectural design mimics European palace style, with rich and diverse collections including Western paintings, sculptures, musical instruments, and weapons. The museum's establishment reflected Xu's emphasis on cultural education - he hoped everyone could enjoy the beauty that art brings.

Corporate Culture and Social Responsibility

Xu's business management philosophy was deeply influenced by music and art. He emphasized the importance of corporate culture, believing that good enterprises should be like beautiful music, with various departments coordinating and cooperating to create harmonious overall effects.

He also highly valued social responsibility. Besides establishing the museum, he actively participated in education, healthcare, environmental protection, and other public welfare activities. Xu believed that enterprises take from society and should give back - this is the proper character of entrepreneurs.

Legacy and Inspiration

When Xu passed away in 2023, he left behind not only a massive commercial empire but also rich cultural heritage and an exemplary entrepreneurial spirit. He proved that business success and cultural pursuit can perfectly combine, setting a high benchmark for Taiwan's business community.

Xu's life embodied the multifaceted nature of Taiwanese entrepreneurs. He was not only a successful businessman but also a cultural promoter and social contributor. His story tells us that true success lies not only in wealth accumulation but in lasting impact on society and culture.

References

• Chimei Group Official Website: Founder's Biography — Official introduction to Chimei Group's founder
• Chimei Museum Official Website: Founding Philosophy — Origins and philosophy behind Chimei Museum's creation
• United Daily News: Xu Wen-Long Biographical Feature — Mainstream media's complete review of Xu's lifetime achievements