‘pagoda’ by ikimono architects＋sunao koase＋maniackers design, nakanojo, japan images courtesy of ikimono architects＋sunao koase＋maniackers design

japan-based ikimono architects, sunao koase and maniackers design have collaborated to create ‘pagoda’ a temporary installation for this year’s nakanojo biennale, an art festival in nakanojo, japan. billowing in the wind, this ephemeral tower reflects the changing atmosphere and encompassing vegetated landscape. the 40 meter tall ribbon formed by a reflective mirror-like material is suspended from a discreet system of cables, creating an initial appearance of robust metal structure, until a gust of wind ripples and curves the 1000mm wide strip. it was completed by the industrial waste reused from the film which manufactures the industry of nakadai inc., the textile’s thin .05 mm profile emerges from a cluster of wildflowers.

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 2 woman viewing the installation

dancing and glistening in the sunlight, the artwork transforms and reinvents itself in every fleeting moment, creating a unique and personal experience for every transient visitor. sited amidst an ancient holy mountain, individuals stop to pray in the grassy setting under the figure which reflects the symbolic scenery. during the evening, uplighting illuminates the immediate area producing an environment repose.

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 3 reflective tower glistens in the sunlight

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 4 mirror-like material reflects the landscape and continuously changing atmosphere

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 5wind creates a variety of ribbon patterns

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 6 upward view of the billowing form

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 7 wind creates a transient curved profile

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 8 tower emerges from the vegetated landscape

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 9 upward view from base

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 10 tower emerges from a cluster of wild flowers

ikimono architects + sunao koase + maniackers design: pagoda - 11 base and placard

video courtesy of takashi fujino / ikimono architects＋sunao koase＋maniackers design

project info:

architect: takashi fujino / ikimono architects＋sunao koase＋maniackers design production: takashi fujino / ikimono architects＋sunao koase＋maniackers design design: 2010.8 – 2011.7 production: 2011.7 – 2011.9