Nesting Plan VII: Art Inspired by Formosan Wild Boar

Public installation blends ecology, indigenous culture, and sustainable design

Nesting Plan VII—Formosan Wild Boar stands as a striking public art installation, reflecting the ecological spirit of Hualien’s Forest Park. The design pays homage to the indigenous Formosan Wild Boar, drawing inspiration from the animal’s instinctive nesting behaviors. By translating these natural processes into large, immersive structures, the installation invites visitors to step inside and experience the world from the boar’s perspective. The project highlights the often-overlooked potential of domestic materials, such as Taiwan Cedar and Makino Bamboo, challenging prevailing aesthetic and practical biases in Taiwanese art and architecture.

The installation’s unique character lies in its biomimetic approach. The structure echoes the wild boar’s use of hay and branches to build protective nests, with the entrance strategically positioned to mirror the animal’s vigilant posture—snout facing outward. Native wood and bamboo were carefully selected to harmonize with the surrounding forest, creating a seamless dialogue between the artwork and its environment. The result is a multifunctional space that serves both as a contemplative art piece and a gathering spot for park visitors.

Advanced digital computation and precise structural design underpin the realization of this ambitious project. The primary framework, crafted from Taiwan Cedar timber and Makino Bamboo, showcases meticulous joinery techniques that ensure both stability and aesthetic refinement. The installation’s C-shaped bench naturally orients users toward the entrance, reinforcing the connection between human experience and animal instinct. This thoughtful design not only enhances interaction with the natural surroundings but also promotes the use of sustainable, locally sourced materials.

Research for the project involved field observations and expert interviews, focusing on the nesting habits of Formosan Wild Boars and the properties of native materials. Insights gained from these studies informed both the artistic vision and the technical execution, demonstrating the viability of Taiwan Cedar and Makino Bamboo in contemporary design. The project raises environmental awareness and exemplifies the intersection of ecology, sustainability, and creative innovation.

Overcoming traditional reluctance to use local materials posed a significant challenge. Concerns about the softness, irregular knots, and low yield of Taiwan Cedar and Makino Bamboo were addressed through digital design tools and traditional joinery, ensuring both safety and visual appeal. The resulting structure not only mimics the protective shelter of the wild boar but also encourages visitors to engage with the forest, fostering a deeper appreciation for indigenous wildlife and sustainable design practices.

Recognized with the Silver A' Design Award in Fine Arts and Art Installation Design in 2025, Nesting Plan VII—Formosan Wild Boar exemplifies how art can bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, offering a model for ecological architecture that resonates with both local culture and global sustainability goals.