Aeon: A Sculpture Installation by Jung-Mei Wou

Exploring the Essence of Opposing Phenomena

The Aeon sculpture is a reflection of time and space, reality and fantasy, instant and eternity. It embodies the contrast between large and small through the use of round holes surrounded by solid bodies. The abstract shapes, along with the interplay of light and shadow, refract and intertwine with the environment, creating an illusion of the viewer's personal subconsciousness when observed up close.

Constructed using forged stainless steel, the Aeon sculpture showcases the designer's mastery of both form and function. The sculpture's interior features a grid-shaped stainless steel skeleton, providing structural support, while the surface is made of stainless steel thin plates that have been split forged, knocked, and welded to achieve a lightweight composition. The sculpture's supporting points exhibit a sense of lightness through their curved surfaces, showcasing the designer's skill in balancing structural mechanics.

The Aeon sculpture measures 1030mm x 910mm x 1120mm and is made entirely of stainless steel. Its creation involved a year-long process, from the initial concept model to the finished work. The sculpture was exhibited at the Taipei World Trade Center Art Fair in April 2016, captivating audiences with its captivating design and profound philosophical undertones.

One of the notable challenges faced during the creation of the Aeon sculpture was achieving the desired lightness while maintaining structural integrity. Through meticulous experimentation and the creation of six different models, the designer was able to determine the optimal size and position of the circular holes, ensuring an exquisite balance of structural mechanics.

Jung-Mei Wou, the designer behind the Aeon sculpture, drew inspiration from Zhuangzi's philosophy to create a work that explores the nature of duality and interdependence. By combining the imagery of a large fish whale and fish eggs in the sea, the sculpture symbolizes the relationship between opposing forces. It serves as a reminder that seemingly contradictory elements can coexist and rely on each other.

The Aeon sculpture has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. In 2023, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. The Aeon sculpture exemplifies these qualities and contributes to the improvement of our quality of life, making the world a better place.