Small World: A Revolutionary Square Chair Installation Art

Fan Fengyuan's Award-Winning Design Merges Art, Innovation, and Social Commentary

Fengyuan's design is a product of his inspiration drawn from the image of a swimming fish, fluttering tulip petals, and bird calls in the wind. This inspiration is translated into an interactive installation art that generates feedback images according to seat pressure. The design can produce different types of images and sounds based on various factors such as location, time, and crowd, thereby creating a unique experience for each user.

What sets "Small World" apart from other designs is its ability to express different concepts through its generated images and sounds. For instance, it uses the image of a swimming fish and the sound of dripping water to promote ocean protection. It also utilizes fluttering tulip petals and bird calls to promote urban culture, and different cartoon images to announce the arrival of an animation festival. This innovative approach allows the design to engage with the public and raise awareness about various social issues.

The design is realized through the use of anodic alumina, stamping aluminum, and acrylic. Internally, it employs a patented self-generation and power supply technology that converts mechanical energy into electricity. This technology not only powers the installation but also contributes to energy conservation. The installation consists of 5 x 5 elevating chairs with projection and horn, covering an area of 200 square meters.

The "Small World" project started in April 2017 and was completed in January 2018. Throughout its development, the design team faced the challenge of applying projection technology to modern installation art without disrupting the square's rest function. They also had to ensure that the conveyed concepts would be well-received by the public. Despite these challenges, the team successfully created a design that not only serves as a public installation but also as a platform for social commentary.

In conclusion, Fan Fengyuan's "Small World" is a testament to the power of design in bridging art, innovation, and social issues. This award-winning design offers a unique public experience while encouraging discourse on important societal matters. It serves as a reminder that design can go beyond aesthetics and functionality—it can also be a tool for change.