Dou Gong Revival

• Location:  Auckland, New Zealand
• Area:  8.8 sqm
• Year:  2020
• Work Type:  Student
• Institute:  University of Auckland
• Status:  Built
• Instructor:  Matt Liggins

[ HASHTAG WISH TREE ]
AUCKLAND ARTWEEK & KAIPARA COAST SCULPTURE GARDENS EXHIBITION

Inspired by the traditional Chinese bracket system; the Dou Gong, the thesis explores to revive this ancient artform through the means of modern fabrication. Without a single nail or drop of glue, the interlocking components form a robust and aesthetically pleasing structural support for the overhanging roofs.

In commemoration of the global pandemic outbreak of COVID-19, the installation provides a platform where the public voice can be heard and evolves the Dou Gong into a modernised, versatile spaceframe structural system – a motif of China. Dedicated to the doctors fighting at the front line, to the families who have lost their loved ones, to the vulnerable community in fear and to the ones who have suffered. The catastrophe and fragility of life strikes the community as they fall short of hope and lose faith in this state of chaos. As people are reunited and strengthened through this installation, they are able to walk through this void which is a strong representation of the deceased and portrayed as an ‘absence’ of life. Individuals hang up their personalised red ribbons and will eventually see New Zealand’s nationwide cases’ curve emerge over time. Through having this interactive element, it allows visitors to get involved in an immersive manner and hopes to reactivate the community as the crisis settles back to normality again.