THE TENSION BETWEEN 2021
A site-specific installation commissioned for the Huaniao Public Art Festival on an island off the coast of Shanghai in China
The Tension Between is a site-specific installation commissioned for the Huaniao Public Art Festival on an island off the coast of Shanghai in China. The 30 meter installation explores the tensions inherent with establishing and growing a new economy through cultural tourism, and the impact on the people and the environment – what can be lost and gained with the development.
The work references the ocean that surrounds the island, the local economy and the traditional way the locals would have been self-sustaining, living from the land and the natural environment, particularly through fishing. The materials used draw on the bioluminescence of the phosphorescent algae that is present in the local waters.
The resulting work is contemplative, thought-provoking, experiential and participatory. The immersive art experience encourages the participant to think about their impact on the environment, the ecological footprint required to sustain a local population and the impact of cultural tourism. Cultural tourism can be destructive and erode cultural heritage or can be used to support, amplify and regenerate a local community with its ability to keep alive cultural heritage and safeguard the land by respecting the true ecology of the island.
Introduction to The Tension Between for the Huaniao Public Art Festival 2021
Moving through the installation The Tension Between at the Huaniao Public Art Festival 2021
Performers responding to The Tension Between at the Huaniao Public Art Festival 2021
Hua Niao Island International Public Art
— Exchange between RMIT & ECNU
In 2023 an image of The Tension Between was featured in the Hua Niao Island International Public Art Festival that was launched as part of the Lightscapes program at the RMIT City Campus and Melbourne Central (B2 & B24 Rodda Lane and Knox Place). The series of light boxes extended the partnership with the Huaniao Island International Public Art Festival.
Installation view of The Tension Between as part of the Hua Niao Island International Public Art — Exchange between RMIT & ECNU 2023
B2 & B24 Rodda Lane, Melbourne
Light box