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"Free Air" Sculpture: A Symbol of Healing, Innovation, and Urban Revitalization at the Ube Biennale

"Free Air," created by acclaimed artist Huang Yu Jung, stands as a striking testament to the transformative power of art in public spaces. Installed in Ube City, Japan, and unveiled at the Ube Biennale in October 2024, this large-scale sculpture invites viewers to experience a sense of lightness and spiritual liberation. Drawing inspiration from archaeological discoveries and the city's industrial past, the artwork features a partially unearthed bottle form-its upper half crafted from highly reflective medical-grade 316 stainless steel, and its lower half embedded in the earth with antique bronze. This material contrast tells a compelling story of history, renewal, and the enduring relationship between technology and tradition.

The sculpture's design uniquely visualizes the invisible presence of wind and air, encouraging interaction and contemplation. Visitors are invited to touch, approach, and engage with the piece, transforming their physical sensations into a state of relaxation and healing. Huang Yu Jung's vision is rooted in the belief that beauty and joy foster health and happiness, and that art can serve as a natural form of therapy. The installation not only revitalizes its urban surroundings but also symbolizes the collaborative spirit between Japan and Taiwan in advancing technology and envisioning a future of freedom and possibility.

"Free Air" was realized through a fusion of advanced digital sheet metal forming techniques and traditional bronze casting, embodying both cutting-edge innovation and centuries-old craftsmanship. The artist overcame significant technical challenges to achieve an organic, bubble-like form that appears light and dynamic despite its substantial metal construction. The result is a visually striking and emotionally uplifting artwork that transcends its physicality, offering a dynamic interplay between heaviness and lightness, past and future. Its recognition with the Silver A' Design Award underscores its excellence in creativity, technical achievement, and positive impact on public well-being.

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