Murmur

Wind-driven sound installation, located in Xianglushan Village, Huangmei County, Hubei Province in China. This mountainous region is known for its abundant bamboo, the primary material for local crafts. With the technical support of bamboo craftsman and local villager Wu Chuyun, I could explore the original creativity of local craftsmanship and discover more possibilities in nature art.

During spring, the south wind from the Yongan Reservoir blows strongly, making the processed bamboo pole on the farm trail produce murmuring sounds that are like whispers hidden among the trees. The whispers softly beckon the busy villagers. The snaked form of bamboo comes from its growth path, following the winding trail and the footsteps of resting villagers.

This rural public artwork is rooted in the local village tradition, extending more vitality to the agricultural life and contributing back to the villagers. It is a breath of fresh air away from the fast-food and consumerist culture. This artwork is born in nature and adapts to its environment, guiding the villagers to realize their irreplaceable culture.

Most young people in Xianglushan Village have moved to the cities, while those left to farm are elderly aged 60-80. They had experience in craftsmanship when they were young, so they are carpenters, bamboo craftsmen, and farmers. Their crafts range from small handicrafts to house construction. Co-creation of contemporary art with the elderly villagers will help them discover more dimensions of their land during the fallow seasons. The original culture's diversity also attracts the attention of the surrounding areas.