Amplification of Sensation: A Public Installation with a Message

Eun Whan Cho's Innovative Chair Design Promotes Environmental Awareness

The Han River, a beloved spot amongst Seoul's citizens, runs through the center of the city and offers a rare opportunity to experience nature amidst the urban environment. In response to a request from the Seoul Metropolitan Government for a public installation in this significant location, Cho designed and installed these unique chairs.

What sets 'Amplification of Sensation' apart from other public installations is its dual purpose. Not only does it provide a place for citizens to rest and enjoy the natural surroundings, but it also serves as a visual reminder of the city's environmental challenges. The chairs are made from pulverized discarded plastic, a material choice that underscores the pressing issue of plastic waste.

Each chair resembles a funnel or a megaphone, amplifying the sounds of the surrounding environment when one sits on it. This design feature encourages users to focus on their sensory perceptions, enhancing their awareness of the city's soundscape. Simultaneously, the recycled material of the chairs prompts users to consider the environmental implications of plastic waste.

Creating 'Amplification of Sensation' was not without its challenges. The collection and processing of discarded plastic waste required extensive experimentation to mold the material into a functional chair. Despite these hurdles, Cho and his team, including Taiho Shin, successfully realized their vision, creating an installation that is both functional and thought-provoking.

The 'Amplification of Sensation' installation has been recognized for its innovative design and environmental message. It was awarded the Silver A' Street and City Furniture Design Award in 2022, a prestigious accolade given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, creativity, and innovation. This recognition highlights the project's success in combining design, function, and social commentary in a single installation.

In conclusion, Eun Whan Cho's 'Amplification of Sensation' is more than just a chair installation. It is a public sculpture that encourages citizens to engage with their environment and consider the impact of their actions on the world around them. Through its innovative design and environmental message, 'Amplification of Sensation' serves as a potent reminder of the power of design to effect change and inspire thought.