Naai-Jung Shih's "Missing Julie": A Frame Installation of Emotion and Metaphor

Golden A' Design Award Winner Transforms Flea Market Finds into a Symbol of Longing

The inspiration for "Missing Julie" came from the symbol of wishes and tears. Shih describes the installation as an expression of the emotion that people feel when they are looking out of a frame, waiting for someone to return. The glass spheres, which Shih collected from a local flea market, are used to represent these wishes and tears. The spheres distort and orient outdoor scenes upside down, creating a unique visual effect that further emphasizes the theme of longing.

The steel frame of the installation symbolizes an eye, defining the boundary of emotion. The boxes within the frame serve as containers for different parts of memory. Shih explains that the emotion given by a person can be different from the way it is perceived, and the glass spheres perfectly illustrate this concept. The springs within the installation represent eyelashes, adding another layer of symbolism to the piece.

"Missing Julie" was created through manual assembly, with Shih himself taking the background photos for the proposed locations. The installation measures 50cm in width, 30cm in depth, and 70cm in height. It can be placed in front of a window panel or in an open field, changing as the weather changes. The transparency of the spheres allows for this transformation, and the installation can also project different levels of shadows onto a wall when placed in front of a white wall where sunshine can reach.

The creation of "Missing Julie" presented a twofold challenge for Shih. He had to find a way to use the flea market collection of glass spheres to create different appearances and to symbolize moving eyes with springs as eyelashes. Additionally, he had to balance weight and transparency in the production process. Despite these challenges, Shih was able to create a stunning piece of art that embodies his innovative approach to design.

"Missing Julie" is more than just a frame installation; it is an interface between indoors and outdoors, light and shadow. It is a testament to Shih's ability to transform everyday objects into meaningful art, and it is a deserving winner of the Golden A' Fine Arts and Art Installation Design Award. As Shih continues to push the boundaries of design, there is no doubt that he will continue to create innovative and impactful works of art.