starburst installation spreads illuminating rays within temple in taiwan

Jun Ong sets up light installation Buddhist temple

Halo is the latest hyper-site-specific installation by Malaysian light artist Jun Ong, situated in Xiu De Bai Pavilion—a former Buddhist temple in the historic town of Yan Shui, Tainan, Taiwan. Light holds deep significance in Buddhism, often symbolizing enlightenment—an awakening or understanding of truth. Sacred figures, including Buddha, are frequently depicted with halos surrounding their heads or bodies. In Halo, Ong imagines a starburst form of this sacred light, both celebrating the intricate architecture of the pavilion and its ties to the surrounding neighborhood.

all images courtesy of Jun Ong

Halo shines bright illuminating Xiu De Bai Pavilion

The installation comes alive like a portal in time, with dynamic yet pure streaks of light radiating an intangible aura while offering viewers a glimpse into the past. Its deconstructed design allows for intimate illumination around each of the light tubes, uncovering forgotten and unseen details within the temple.

Drawing inspiration from the Xiu De Bai Pavilion (修德拜亭)—built in 1919 and with roots tracing back to the Qing dynasty—the installation honors its host building’s history as a cornerstone of the community. Halo also recreates light artist Jun Ong’s earlier work, Star/KL. Commissioned by Yuejin Art Museum, Halo takes part in the 2024 Yuejin Art Museum Festival.

Halo by Jun Ong transforms historic Xiu De Bai Pavilion into a radiant starburst of light

the installation reimagines the sacred halo, a symbol of enlightenment in Buddhism

streaks of light radiate through the pavilion, uncovering unseen details within the temple

Jun Ong’s immersive light installation illuminates the 100-year-old structure

the dynamic installation evokes the timeless significance of light as a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment

the installation’s ethereal glow reveals intricate architectural elements of the temple

delicate light tubes form a deconstructed halo within and beyond the temple’s structure

light radiates an intangible aura, drawing viewers into a meditative experience

project info:

name: Halo
designer: Jun Ong | @junihaoni

commissioned by: Yuejin Art Museum | @yuejinartmuseum

location: Yan Shui, Tainan, Taiwan

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom