Between Mountains and Rivers
"Between Mountains and Rivers" (BMR) is an art installation inspired by traditional Chinese ink painting techniques and the concept of "blank space," as seen in the philosophical ideas of Laozi. The project aims to create an immersive landscape experience by suspending two landscape paintings and extending the blank spaces representing rivers into the physical space, thus creating a complete landscape ink painting. The installation uses traditional rice paper to break the boundaries of the canvas, expressing emotions related to space and scenes.
Concept Development
Inspired by Jessica Stockholde's work, the group explored the concept of blank space in Chinese ink painting.
the group discussed and refined the concept via a Discord meeting.
Material Selection
Glorie prepared the ink painting tools.
The group debated on materials to achieve a certain level of transparency, considering solid stones, accordion-folded paper fans, or dyed hemp ropes as alternatives to traditional rice paper.
Initial Visual Concept
The group decided to simplify the landscape and reduce the number of suspended rice paper pieces to emphasize blank space.
Studio Setup and Testing
The group reserved a shooting studio to test the material choices and visual concepts.
Glorie adjusted the setup to align with the project’s concept and painted part of the ink painting.
Interactive Elements and Prototyping
The group worked on incorporating interactive elements such as projecting animations and tracking audience movements.
The group attempted to fold a giant paper boat and created a wooden boat for a 3D model representation.
Rehearsals and Adjustments
The group conducted formal rehearsals, identified issues with the display, and made necessary adjustments, such as switching to a short-throw projector and creating a control mechanism for the waves.
Glorie played a crucial role in adjusting the visual elements and ensuring the artistic coherence of the project.
Final Installation Presentation
The group successfully completed and presented the final installation, achieving the desired immersive and interactive landscape experience.