Earth Worker: A Harmonious Blend of Art and Nature

Installation Art that Celebrates Local History and Stories

The inspiration for the Earth Worker project came from the designer's initial encounter with the local environment. Chen aimed to capture the essence of the wetland and its connection to water, woods, and sky, while also paying homage to the indigenous Macadao tribe. The installation art piece serves as a visual representation of the tribe's history and stories, evoking a sense of wonder and curiosity.

What sets the Earth Worker apart from other installations is its use of semi-representative human shapes to convey local narratives through body language, movement, and temperament. The giant figure, resembling an earth worker, symbolizes the creation of all living things and serves as a metaphor for the Macadao tribe's matriarchal society. The project's long-term interviews and field investigations ensured a deep understanding of the local history and culture, resulting in a design that truly reflects the essence of Taiwan.

The Earth Worker installation is brought to life using GlassFiber Reinforced Cement as the main material. The exterior design showcases the natural texture of cement mortar, without unnecessary patches or color processing. This choice emphasizes the project's sensibility and its seamless integration with the wetland environment.

Creating the Earth Worker installation presented several challenges. The construction process had to consider factors such as geology, weight distribution, strong gusts, and earthquakes. Structural calculations were meticulously carried out to ensure the installation's stability and durability. The use of marine engineering foundation steel piles and subtle joining methods allowed the artwork to be securely positioned on the water, while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

Interacting with the Earth Worker installation is an immersive experience. The artwork symbolizes the mother of the earth and encourages viewers to embrace their own creativity and dreams. The figure's posture, with feet deeply rooted in the earth and hands cultivating life, represents the courage to pursue change and personal growth. The Earth Worker serves as a tribute to hardworking individuals in society, reminding us of the transformative power of determination.

The Earth Worker installation was completed in December 2020 in Pingtung County, Taiwan. It stands as a testament to the beauty of art, nature, and cultural heritage. Through its simple yet powerful design, the installation invites viewers to reflect on their own dreams and aspirations, while appreciating the rich history and stories of the Macadao tribe.

The Earth Worker installation has been recognized for its excellence and innovation. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2021. This prestigious award acknowledges the project's outstanding design, practicality, and adherence to professional and industrial standards. The Earth Worker installation exemplifies the integration of industry best practices, technical expertise, and a commitment to creating a better world through art.