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III Portal Tree

Exhibition / Installation

Partner Programme

19 — 22 Sept 2024

Architecture / Landscape, Multi-Disciplinary Design

Inspired by the ancient Shu civilization's bronze sacred tree from the Sanxingdui ruins, with its 3 branches, 3-tiered structure, and 3 dove flowers and birds, we acknowledge that the number "3" carries profound connotations of integration, innovation, and richness in both Eastern and Western cultures.

"III Portal Tree" seeks to make people aware of the shifting and transformation of spaces. It inspires people of what would lie behind the threshold which could revitalize or infuse the street with renewed vitality. Composed of four rows of three columns made from copper and acrylic, "III Portal Tree" creates a set of vertical porch spaces, with a decorative Dou Gong with bronze sacred bird wind chimes on the side. Inspired by the ancient Shu civilization's bronze sacred tree from the Sanxingdui ruins, with its 3 branches, 3-tiered structure, and 3 dove flowers and birds, we acknowledge that the number "3" carries profound connotations of integration, innovation, and richness in both Eastern and Western cultures. This design metaphorically signifies the connection between the past, present, and future, or a certain balance among the three realms of heaven, earth, and humanity in Taoism. We attempt to capture and present this essence during the process. "III Portal Tree" symbolizes the transcendence and entry into other dimensions. By passing through it, individuals can experience various stories and scenarios unfolding in different buildings and environments. It serves not only as a threshold but also linking people from diverse buildings, regions, and cultural backgrounds. Additionally, it functions as a meeting and gathering point, offering a temporary resting place. Through the gaps between the columns, one can glimpse the bronze sacred bird perched seemingly in the shade of the tree and hear the intermittent sound of bells. The word "Portal" integrates from the Latin term "porta," meaning "door" or "entrance." Moreover, "III Portal Tree" incorporates extensive natural and historical elements such as the columns, wind, dove flowers, trees, birds and bronze. In ancient times, people revered nature and these symbols, imbuing them with power. This worship of nature endowed early settlements with endless vitality and mystery. In contemporary society, social collaboration no longer depends on religion or deities but increasingly relies on the collective ideals and consciousness. "III Portal Tree" endeavors to rekindle an ancient emotion that a deep reverence for the mysteries of the world, nature, and the universe — an emotion that may be termed "love”.