Hitobito: A Captivating Art Installation at the Taipei Lantern Festival

Bringing Together Tradition and Innovation

The inspiration behind Hitobito lies in the diverse and vibrant atmosphere of Taipei City. The facade of the installation is crafted from intricately woven bamboo, symbolizing the traditional Asian crafting methods. Complementing the bamboo, white-painted steel pipes represent the architectural structure, merging tradition and innovation seamlessly.

What sets Hitobito apart is its design concept, which draws inspiration from the Chinese character for "person." The installation features two small entrances that face one of the main entrances to the festival venue. These entrances merge into a larger space where visitors can witness a mesmerizing projection on the ground, creating a sense of unity and togetherness.

The realization of Hitobito involved a combination of manual craftsmanship and modern technology. The steel pipe structure was manually bent and then clad with 1cm bamboo dowels, creating a visually stunning three-dimensional curvature. At the center of the installation, a projector is installed to project captivating motion graphics onto the floor, enhancing the immersive experience.

With dimensions of 9.8 meters in width, 7.8 meters in depth, and 3.5 meters in height, Hitobito stands as an impressive structure within the festival grounds. Its organic shape and unique combination of materials make it a standout piece of art.

The interaction with Hitobito is designed to guide visitors through a memorable experience. The narrow side entrance serves as the main flow of visitors, leading them into the installation individually. As they progress, they eventually meet in the larger space where the projection creates a sense of unity and connection.

The design and construction of Hitobito took place in Taipei City, starting in November 2022 and concluding in January 2023. The installation was unveiled to the public during the Taipei Lantern Festival in February 2023, becoming a focal point of the event.

Hitobito is not only a visually stunning art installation but also a celebration of diversity and unity. As part of the new immigrant district in Song Shan Cultural Park, it represents the harmonious coexistence of different cultures within Taiwan. The warm lighting that envelops the installation at night further enhances the emotional connection between visitors and the space.

Recognizing its exceptional design and artistic merit, Hitobito was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2023. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the innovative and practical nature of the installation, as well as its contribution to creating a better world.