Crown of the Sea General: A Captivating Installation Art

Bringing Awareness to Marine Resources Preservation and Climate Change

The Crown of the Sea General installation art is located in Kouhu Township, Yunlin County, Taiwan. It draws inspiration from the Sea Goddess Mazu, a prominent figure in traditional Taiwanese folk religion. The design symbolizes the sacrifice of the Sea General, who gives up its life to save the environment damaged by human beings. The crown left behind serves as a reminder to cherish the planet and addresses the pressing issues of marine resources preservation and climate change.

What sets the Crown of the Sea General apart is its incorporation of various cultural elements and practical features. The installation art showcases patterns from different ethnic groups, creating a multicultural experience. Inside the installation, benches provide a place for visitors to rest while also offering sun-ray-shielding functionality. The exterior is adorned with white gravels, providing an interactive space for children to play and encouraging attention towards environmental protection and the ocean.

The realization of the Crown of the Sea General involved a combination of materials and techniques. Stainless steel bars and nets were used as the frame, while cement mortar served as the molding material. The surfaces were adorned with glossy glaze tiles, fragmented ceramics, and pebbles, adding visual interest. Mirror-pane glass was used for the exterior, creating a striking contrast between tradition and modernity.

With dimensions measuring 10 meters long, 3 meters wide, and 4 meters tall, the installation follows the construction method of Taiwanese modern temple roofs. The design incorporates dragons, phoenixes, and other auspicious symbols commonly found in traditional Taiwanese temples. Skilled artisans specializing in temple exteriors, legendary figures, and deity statues were invited to contribute their expertise to the project.

The Crown of the Sea General serves as a captivating visual representation of the fightback of nature against human actions. Its vibrant colors draw from traditional Taiwanese temple decorations, while the use of low-temperature glaze kilning fragmented ceramics and tiles adds a touch of exquisiteness. The design aims to deepen the visual perception of visitors and raise awareness about the importance of environmental preservation.

Completed in November 2019 in Yunlin County, Taiwan, the Crown of the Sea General is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region. Through meticulous research and collaboration with skilled artisans, the design team successfully merged modern art design with traditional craft, creating a truly unique and impactful installation art.

The Crown of the Sea General was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2020. This prestigious accolade recognizes designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skill. By incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology, the Crown of the Sea General contributes to improving the quality of life and making the world a better place.