large black sphere hovers over memorial in xidian wang’s museum of silence and memory

the sphere's detachment from the earth mirrors the emotional burdens of women enduring systemic oppression in india.

Xidian Wang edited by thomai tsimpou October 15, 2024 3 min

Xidian Wang imagines a black sphere suspended above the ground

Located in New Delhi, The Museum of Silence and Memory by the designer Xidian Wang addresses the silent histories of women who have endured systemic oppression in India. The layout unravels inside a large black sphere suspended just above the ground, symbolizing the weight of unspoken stories. The sphere’s detachment from the earth creates a subtle sense of imbalance, mirroring these women’s emotional and societal challenges. Beneath it, the ground dips slightly, representing the silent imprint left by their absence. Below the surface, visitors enter an underground space where a water feature and rows of steles reflect the dignity and individuality of the women commemorated.

large black sphere hovers over memorial in xidian wang’s museum of silence and memory - 1 — all images courtesy of Xidian Wang

The Museum of Silence and Memory promotes healing

Inside Tokyo-based Xidian Wang’s black sphere, a dimly lit space awaits, devoid of material objects except for faint, ethereal reflections of faces overhead. The Museum of Silence and Memory features an inviting environment where visitors engage with the emotional side of the stories being honored. The design ensures that the focus remains on the human experience, allowing quiet contemplation and a deeper connection to remembered lives. The architecture of the museum offers a sacred space for healing and remembrance, honoring lives often overlooked in history.

large black sphere hovers over memorial in xidian wang’s museum of silence and memory - 2 — the museum addresses the histories of women who have endured systemic oppression in India

large black sphere hovers over memorial in xidian wang’s museum of silence and memory - 3 — a large black sphere hovers above the ground

large black sphere hovers over memorial in xidian wang’s museum of silence and memory - 4 — symbolizing the weight of unspoken stories

large black sphere hovers over memorial in xidian wang’s museum of silence and memory - 5 — the sphere’s detachment from the earth creates a subtle sense of imbalance

large-black-sphere-memorial-xidian-wang-museum-silence-memory-designboom-1800-02 — mirroring the emotional and societal burdens these women carry

large black sphere hovers over memorial in xidian wang’s museum of silence and memory - 6 — balloon plan

large black sphere hovers over memorial in xidian wang’s museum of silence and memory - 7 — underground plan

project info:

name: Museum of Silence and Memory
architect: Xidian Wang | @xidian.official
location: New Delhi, India

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