Shang Shui: A Mirrored Reflection of Taichung's Past

Yueh Mei Cheng's AR Artwork Wins A' Design Award

Yueh Mei Cheng's Shang Shui, a term that translates to "Water of Life," is more than just an art installation—it's a historic reminder of Jiushe's agricultural past. This masterpiece, situated in the bustling MRT Jiushe station, serves as a gateway to the region's history, symbolizing the lifeline of water and light that sustained the local tobacco industry. The artwork's name, derived from the Taiwanese expression for "most beautiful," encapsulates the essence of sustainability and prosperity that define the area.

The installation stands out for its interactive design, which evokes deep emotions and creates a mobile visual world within the artwork. By incorporating Augmented Reality (AR), Shang Shui transforms the MRT station into a cultural hub, allowing passengers to engage with the past and present of Jiushe. This innovative approach to public art ensures that each visitor leaves with a sense of satisfaction and a joyful memory of their journey through the station.

Shang Shui's realization is a testament to modern technology, utilizing mirror-finish stainless steel sheets to achieve its reflective quality. The artwork's dimensions are grand, spanning 700cm x 700cm x 507.5cm, creating a significant presence within the public space. The design team, including integrator Boxing Landscape Co., Ltd., producer Ming Yu Hsiao, and AR artist Yu Fan He, collaborated to bring this vision to life.

The artwork's interaction is as innovative as its design. Beneath the mirrored stainless steel lighting plates, three AR installations invite viewers to explore Jiushe's beauty and glory through various scenarios. These interactive elements allow passengers to capture and save images of the artwork, creating personal mementos that recall Jiushe's storied past.

Shang Shui's creation was a meticulous process, completed in July 2022. It required extensive research into the region's history, including its advanced irrigation system and the tobacco industry's impact during the Japanese rule. The design challenges were significant, particularly in constructing the mirrored stainless steel "circle" that symbolizes wholeness. The solution was to divide the structure into four parts, ensuring aesthetic integrity and structural stability.

The installation is a harmonious blend of four elements: tobacco, water channels, sustainable sources, and the light of hope. These symbolize the memories of Old Taichung-Jiushe and the city's development. By integrating AR, Shang Shui not only provides an immersive visual experience but also brings the environment and its history closer to the people. The artwork's shimmering water ripples on the ground infuse the site with energy, making it a living testament to Taichung's rich heritage.

Shang Shui's recognition with a Bronze A' Design Award in the Interactive, Experiential, and Immersive Design Installations category is a tribute to Yueh Mei Cheng's vision and the team's execution. The award celebrates the design's creativity, technical prowess, and its contribution to enhancing the quality of life by making the world a more engaging and informed place.