Interview about Aeon Sculpture Installation, winner of the A' Fine Arts and Art Installation Design Award 2023
This work is inspired by the fable at the beginning of the first chapter of Zhuangzi's philosophy, A Happy Excursion. This sculpture is a reflection of the real world in microcosm and explores the nature of time and space, reality and fantasy, instant and eternity, which appear to be opposites but are at the same time interdependent symbiotic phenomena.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsTranslating Zhuangzi’s philosophy into a contemporary sculptural language was an exploration of duality as a fundamental principle of existence. Inspired by the fable A Happy Excursion, I sought to embody Zhuangzi’s vision of transformation and interconnectedness through a form that balances opposites—light and shadow, presence and absence, motion and stillness. The circular voids symbolize the infinite intersecting with the finite, creating spaces where perception and imagination converge. Reflective stainless steel amplifies this concept by making the sculpture a dynamic participant in its environment, constantly interacting with light, weather, and the observer’s perspective. This interplay of ancient wisdom and modern materiality invites viewers to reflect on balance and impermanence, transcending temporal and cultural boundaries.
The technical approach was inspired by natural forms, such as tree canopies filtering light, as well as Zhuangzi’s philosophy of harmony between opposites. The grid-shaped internal skeleton was meticulously engineered to provide structural integrity while minimizing material weight. Stainless steel was selected for its dual qualities of strength and reflectivity, enabling the sculpture to appear ethereal despite its solid construction. Achieving this balance required close collaboration with metal craftsmen to refine forging techniques and optimize the curvature of the steel plates. The result is a form that embodies both visual lightness and philosophical depth, with shifting patterns of light and shadow symbolizing the transient and ever-changing nature of existence.
The iterative process of developing six models was pivotal in harmonizing aesthetic vision with structural feasibility. Each prototype revealed new insights, particularly in optimizing the placement and size of the circular voids to maintain stability while preserving the fluidity of the design. The distinctive double-curved support points posed unique engineering challenges, requiring precise adjustments to achieve equilibrium. This iterative refinement also allowed me to explore how the sculpture’s elevation and contours interact with natural light and the surrounding space. Ultimately, this process not only ensured structural soundness but also heightened the poetic qualities of the final work, capturing both the elegance of Zhuangzi’s philosophy and the resilience of contemporary engineering.
The round voids are central to the sculpture’s narrative, functioning both as literal absences and profound metaphors. They symbolize the fleeting nature of the instant and the boundless continuum of eternity, inviting viewers to reflect on the spaces between presence and absence. As light passes through these voids, it creates dynamic patterns that shift with time and perspective, mirroring the impermanence celebrated in Zhuangzi’s philosophy. Artistically, these voids disrupt the solidity of the form, transforming it into a living, breathing entity that interacts with its environment. Philosophically, they embody the concept of wu (emptiness), where transformation occurs, bridging the tangible and the intangible. This design encourages viewers to peer through and beyond the voids, fostering introspection and a deeper appreciation of life’s dualities.
One pivotal moment was recognizing the profound synergy between structural mechanics and philosophical intent. This insight shaped every aspect of the design, ensuring that the sculpture’s form aligned with its deeper narrative. Refining the circular voids was another transformative step; each adjustment not only enhanced the piece’s stability but also enriched its symbolic resonance. The journey from concept to realization underscored the importance of adaptability and collaboration, as challenges often revealed unexpected opportunities to elevate the work. Witnessing abstract ideas materialize into a tangible form was deeply rewarding, reaffirming my belief in the power of perseverance to bring a vision to life.
Wind load analysis was a critical factor in shaping Aeon’s design, especially given its open, lightweight structure. Extensive testing revealed how subtle adjustments to the curvature and angle of the voids could reduce wind resistance while enhancing stability. This optimization allowed the sculpture to coexist with natural forces rather than oppose them, embodying Zhuangzi’s philosophy of harmony with the environment. The resulting form, with its flowing lines and seamless contours, preserves the work’s aesthetic elegance and symbolic essence, reflecting the dynamic interplay between resilience and adaptability.
The juxtaposition of whales and fish eggs stems directly from Zhuangzi’s analogy of the vast and the minute as interconnected facets of existence. Whales symbolize grandeur and vastness, while fish eggs represent minuteness and potentiality. By integrating these symbols into the design, I sought to visualize the idea that the small and the great are intrinsically linked, each containing the essence of the other. The circular voids evoke fish eggs, while the sculpture’s overall presence suggests the grandeur of a whale. This interplay creates a narrative of unity within diversity, inviting viewers to explore the infinite within the finite and the boundless within the specific.
Aeon serves as a conduit for dialogue, bridging ancient Eastern philosophical thought with modern sculptural innovation. As an educator, I see it as an opportunity to inspire students and viewers to explore how abstract ideas can be embodied in physical forms. The work challenges conventional boundaries, encouraging an interdisciplinary approach that blends cultural heritage with contemporary creativity. By addressing universal themes of duality, transformation, and interdependence, Aeon fosters deeper engagement with both philosophy and art, highlighting their relevance in navigating the complexities of modern life.
This recognition affirmed the universality of art as a medium for cross-cultural connection. It inspired me to continue exploring how deeply rooted philosophical traditions can inform contemporary public art, resonating with global audiences. This acknowledgment reinforces the importance of creating works that reflect cultural identity while transcending geographical and temporal boundaries. By bridging Eastern philosophy with modern aesthetics, Aeon exemplifies how public art can serve as a platform for shared understanding and dialogue.
I hope Aeon invites viewers to engage with both its tangible and intangible dimensions, fostering a deeper connection between physical form and philosophical ideas. Through its interplay of light, shadow, and void, the sculpture encourages contemplation of duality, transformation, and interconnectedness. By challenging conventional perceptions, Aeon demonstrates how contemporary sculpture can transcend aesthetics to become a medium for profound philosophical exploration, enriching the viewer’s experience and understanding of the world.
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