Revitalizing Alishan Forest: Aesthetic Event Proposals by Yi-Jen Tu

Transforming Alishan National Forest Recreation Area through Art, Ecology, and Travel

The Aesthetic Proposal for Seasonal Forest was conceived in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the aging demographic of Alishan's visitors. The project aimed to transform Alishan into a haven for people seeking respite from the pandemic's effects, attracting tourists of all ages. It did so by introducing artistic experiences that allowed visitors to explore the forest in a new light, across all four seasons.

Yi-Jen Tu's design is unique in its approach to forest management. It challenges the traditional idea that Forest Recreation Areas are solely for "Forest Conservation and Healthy Hiking". Instead, it introduces three new dimensions for exploration: "Respect – The Harmony of Human and Nature," "Aesthetics – The Balm of Art and Forest," and "Coexistence – The Reciprocity of Species and Forest."

The project was realized through the design of four aesthetic events, each corresponding to a season and a unique feature of Alishan: flowers, sacred trees, maple, and sunrise. These events, which include a Floral Concert, a Forest Cinema, a Painting Party, and a Sunrise Picnic, were designed to immerse visitors in the forest's beauty while emphasizing the importance of coexistence with nature.

Each event was designed with respect for nature in mind, using transparent, wooden, or natural materials to allow visitors to interact with the environment in the most intimate way possible. This approach, combined with the project's focus on seasonal, terrain, and cultural tailoring, ensured that each event provided a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

The Aesthetic Proposal for Seasonal Forest was a year-long project, starting in January 2020 and ending in December 2020. It was conducted in the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, with each event taking place at a different time of the year. The project's success is a testament to the power of innovative design in transforming spaces and experiences, even in the face of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yi-Jen Tu's design has not only revitalized Alishan but also set a precedent for future forest management strategies. It has demonstrated the potential of integrating art, ecology, and travel to create unique and immersive experiences that respect and celebrate nature. The project's success has been recognized with a Silver A' Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design Award in 2021, a testament to its innovation and excellence.