The model, about 12in x 6in x 6in, consists one octagonal structure at the center surrounded by two cylindrical structures with varied heights and diameters. Quarter-inch-long basswood sticks are pinned to the center octagonal structure extending outwards, enclosed by the cylindrical structures composed using strips of basswood jointed by staples and 16 gauge iron wire. 7 square windows are located on the exterior and some are filled by 110g translucent vellum paper. The structure is intended to facilitate the practice of reflecting. The purpose may be achieved through the experience as the body enters the enclosed space and moves upwards, guided by the structure. The physical struggle of moving upwards as well as the visual experience of glancing through the translucent\/seen-through windows along the journey would serve adequately for this reflection. This project was heavily influenced by my family\u2019s Buddhist background, as well as the oriental aesthetics extracted from traditional Chinese gardens. There are elements of the piece inspired by the structure of Buddhist temples and Chinese pavilions, in addition to the material which is tender and warm. The piece may convey the sense of moderation and containment informed by the traditional Eastern Asian culture. There is an overall upwards implication on the structure, hence guiding the energy to enter from the bottom and flows up in the enclosed space. The center column is, in fact, elevated, thus providing a hollow area for energy to enter. Along the upward journey, there is also a spiral movement provoked by the arrangement of extending sticks on the center column. Eventually, the open top design would serve as the gate as the energy flows out of the space and again interacting with the outside.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":15014,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[28],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-15013","student-work","type-student-work","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-space-materiality"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n