‘starburst’ sculpture by people’s architecture office frames kaleidoscopic views of rural china

shifts in the environment and changing perspectives establish a dynamic connection between the observer and the landscape.

lea zeitoun October 14, 2024 3 min

starburst is an interactive sculpture in southern Xi’an, China

Starburst is an abstract sculpture designed by People’s Architecture Office (PAO) as part of the 5th edition of the Guangzhong Manba Arts Festival in southern Xi’an, China. Unfolding as both a visual and interactive public art installation, the sculpture offers a novel way to experience the natural environment, creating a striking intervention in the rural landscape. Peering into its arms reveals a spherical array of kaleidoscopes that capture unique views of the sky, mountains, fields, and nearby villages, offering a constantly changing visual experience through their patterned reflections. Shifts in the environment and changing perspectives establish a dynamic connection between the observer and the landscape.

'starburst' sculpture by people's architecture office frames kaleidoscopic views of rural china - 1 — image © People’s Architecture Office

people’s architecture office designs an array of kaleidoscopes

Entering the center of Starburst, the team at People’s Architecture Office (PAO) offers a simultaneous panoramic view, surrounding visitors from all angles. Individuals standing at opposite ends of the cylinders can see mosaic compositions of each other, creating playful and engaging interactions that forster human connections. From a distance, Starburst stands as a bold landmark, its red color dramatically contrasting the muted tones of the vast wheat fields at the foot of nearby mountains. ‘The installation’s design and interaction with the environment create a unique sense of place, connecting people to the rural surroundings in novel ways. Through its playful structure, Starburst transforms its surroundings into a space for exploration, reflection, and connection,’ concludes PAO. The Guangzhong Manba Arts Festival is a public art program that supports artistic interventions in rural locations of China.