Wind Crystals: A Salty Tribute to Taiwan's History

Hide Lin's Award-Winning Installation Art Revives Local Salt Industry's Memory

As part of a government initiative to stimulate the local tourism industry, Hide Lin was invited to create a landscape artwork that would encapsulate the area's past and present. The artist chose to use salt crystals to represent the once thriving salt industry in BuDai County. The installation art is a testament to the industry's legacy, with the sea breeze and sun, the main elements of salt production, still present in the area.

The installation, spanning 24 square meters, is a truss structure formed by connecting crystallized salt with a tapered frame made of mahogany wood. The design allows the structure to rotate freely, following the wind's direction and strength. The resulting interplay of light and shadow is a poignant reminder of the county's past.

Hide Lin's design process involved a meticulous study of salt crystals. The crystals' polygonal shape inspired the overall design, which is a combination of polygons constructed from wood. These polygons are arranged irregularly, mirroring the natural composition of piled salt. This design not only captures the image of salt crystals but also underscores the importance of natural elements in the salt industry.

The installation art is not just a visual spectacle but also an educational tool. It provides visitors with a glimpse into the local culture and history, particularly the salt industry's 338-year legacy. The salt relics, which add a touch of white to the southwest coastal sea, are a testament to the industry's fascinating history and the people who were part of it.

The "Wind Crystals" installation was built in July 2020 in Taiwan. The design process posed several challenges, including the need to create a structure composed of only two different components for ease of fabrication. Despite these challenges, Hide Lin and his team, including Art Director Yvon Chiu and Designer Andy Liao, were able to create a masterpiece that has earned international recognition.

In conclusion, Hide Lin's "Wind Crystals" is a remarkable example of how art can be used to preserve and celebrate local history. The installation art, with its unique design and interactive features, serves as a fitting tribute to BuDai County's salt industry and its contribution to Taiwan's culture and economy.