Concepts of Creation
An interesting project considers the human experience in terms of three important elements: light and shadow, gravity and materials.
Light Gravity Material
The interplay of light and shadow in space is akin to the requirements for lighting in photography. Controlling light and shadow can manifest the three-dimensional sense of space, while also reflecting the atmospheric ambiance brought about by materials. This not only showcases the geometric charm of three-dimensional space but also magnifies the texture of materials, compelling people to approach and explore.
All objects on Earth are subject to the influence of gravity, yet we often forget or overlook its impact on space. The same design approach can have significantly different manifestations on objects or materials of varying weights. This aspect represents a unique interaction between the art work itself and the force of gravity.
Materials are crucial elements in composing physical space. They are the most tangible aspects people come into contact with, and the choice of materials can enhance the attractiveness of the design itself. For example, when encountering reflective materials, we often find ourselves drawn to closely examine our own reflection. Mastery over the physical properties of materials can often make the art work of different materials more intriguing.
Light
The Star is a low-cost, low-maintenance prototype based on modular design.During the pandemic, with a surge in the number of deliveries, we accumulated numerous cardboard boxes at home. Our idea was to repurpose these cardboard boxes to create a reusable household item that anyone could make. This design can be crafted at home without the need for any additional tools.
The design consists of 24 identical square panels, divided into three groups. Through simple folding and assembly, these square panels can be transformed into a unique lampshade. The manufacturing process can be undertaken individually or collaboratively by a group of people or a family, allowing for a shared experience and the exchange of crafting insights.
The Star 01
Project: The Star
Location: London, UK
Completion time: 2020
The Star Project is an innovative exploration employing identical 140mm x 140mm panels crafted from recycled cardboard. Comprising a total of 24 panels, these elements serve as the fundamental building blocks for a versatile and dynamic model. Through three distinct cutting methods, these panels can be configured into varied formats, offering flexibility for diverse applications.
The unique design not only involves connecting panels but also utilizes the panels as joints, enhancing structural integrity and visual coherence. This adaptable model can seamlessly transform into a lampshade, exuding a warm and intricate play of light and shadow. Beyond its individual utility, the design allows for expansion into larger-scale installations, presenting a captivating interplay of form and function.
By embracing sustainable practices through recycled materials, the Star Project not only exemplifies eco-conscious design but also champions versatility and scalability. Its dynamic nature encourages creative exploration, making it an ideal fusion of practicality and aesthetic appeal.
Folding with 3 panels
Folding with 6 panels
Folding with 3 panels
Folding
The Imagine Machine is an immersive exploration of the interplay between the mind and its surroundings through reflective experiences. Upon entering the space, the audience is enveloped in a cocoon of membranous foam, providing a tactile and comfortable environment. The machine orchestrates a vibrant lighting display that dances around the eyes, creating a kaleidoscope of colors.
To fully engage with the experience, the audience is encouraged to close their eyes, allowing the mind to interpret the evolving light conditions. By offering freedom in body positioning within the foam-filled space, the Imagine Machine transforms into a multisensory journey, where the audience becomes an integral part of the evolving visual symphony.
The Imagine Machine 02
Project: The Imagine Machine
Location: London, UK
Completion time: 2016
A
Image A - Axo View of Experience
Image B - Section View of Experience
Image C - Light Environment
Image
Image C
Gravity
Dancing Strengths is an innovative project that delves into the realm of origami concepts, pushing the boundaries of geometry and foldability across diverse materials. While origami is traditionally associated with the ease of folding and flexibility of paper, this project ventures into uncharted territory by experimenting with metal, specifically bronze, and PLA (polylactic acid). The exploration scrutinizes the impact of gravity and weight variations across materials, providing a nuanced understanding of how the same geometry can manifest through distinct making processes.
Dancing Strengths not only challenges conventional notions of origami but also serves as a testament to the adaptability and resilience of this ancient art form in the contemporary world of diverse materials and processes.
Dancing Strengths 03
Project: Dancing Strengths
Location: London, UK
Completion time: 2018
The Frozen Swing transcends conventional notions of experience and expression by manipulating gravity’s impact on our perception of time and space. Contrary to our ingrained expectation of a swinging motion returning to a still position, this project challenges that norm. By freezing the swing mid-air, defying gravity’s pull, it disrupts the familiar and prompts passersby to question this anomaly.
The project serves as a poignant reminder of how gravity, often overlooked in design and art, is a crucial element. By suspending the swing in an unexpected moment, The Frozen Swing invites observers to reevaluate their understanding of the relationship between gravity, motion, and our perceptual experience of the world.
The Frozen Swing 04
Project: The Frozen Swing
Location: London, UK
Completion time: 2016
Image A - Making Process
Image B - Swing Interact With People
Image C - The relationship between gravity and perception
-Experience & Expression
Suspending gravity alters the interpretation and experience of time and space.
Image B
Image C
“Dual Reflections” is an immersive project centered around two rotating mirrors facing each other, inviting viewers into a captivating dance with reflection. As spectators approach, the mirrors’ synchronized slow rotation intensifies the reflective experience. The closer one gets, the faster one mirror spins, creating a dynamic challenge for observers attempting to discern the reflections. Meanwhile, the other mirror decelerates, prompting a nuanced interplay. Audiences become participants, navigating the shifting speeds and finding equilibrium between the mirrors.
“Dual Reflections” becomes a metaphor for life’s intricate balance, exploring the complexities of self-perception and the interactive dialogue between individuals and their surroundings through the lens of reflection.
Dual Reflections
Project: Dual Reflections
Location: London, UK
Completion time: 2016
-Reflection
Reflecting reflection and the interaction of the surroundings with reflection.
(Please watch the video for the interactive process)
Image A - Section
Image B - Plan
Image C - 1:10 Scale Model
Image A
Image B
Image C
Material
“Sleep Tight Dark City” is an innovative response to the health concerns associated with light pollution. In this conceptual cityscape, every living being, including inanimate objects, is enveloped in a light-absorbing cocoon during daylight hours. As the environment transitions from bright to dark, the cocoon emits absorbed light, creating an ethereal glow. The city evolves into a dynamic space where light energy transfers through inhabitants’ movements, and even streetlights harness solar energy for nocturnal illumination.
The transformative nature of light extends beyond functionality, as the emitted light adapts to changing shapes, engaging harmoniously with the surroundings. Picture a city where, at 10 pm, lights dim, and residents adorned in cocoons venture out to revel in the serene beauty of complete darkness.
Sleep Tight Dark City
Project: Sleep Tight Dark City
Location: London, UK
Completion time: 2017
Image A - 3D Print Pattern Test
Image B - Paper Coccon with Body
Image C - Paper Coccon with Body
Image D - MDP & Paper Pattern Test
Image A
Image C
Image A - Vehicle Coccon Structure
Image B - Human Coccon Structure
Image C - Vehicle Coccon
Cocoon
Image A
Material
The design of the Banlance Bench aims to explore the interaction between the human body and materials. By making the sitting process more engaging and allowing the occupant to linger longer in the design, the Bench tests the transformation of tension and compression forces in different geometric shapes, as well as how different shapes and materials respond to varying forces.
The final choice is a geometric shape (as shown above) that effectively transfers the force of the body weight to the lumbar support. The greater the applied force, the stronger the lumbar support becomes.
The Balance Bench 07
Project: The Balance Bench
Location: London, UK
Completion time: 2020
Image A - 1:5 Prototype
Image B - Force Analysis
Image C - Axo of Bench
Image C
This community-driven project unfolds as a collaborative effort with residents, prioritizing sustainability. Commencing with insightful meetings, residents passionately addressed concerns about waste, carbon footprint, and overall sustainability. Identifying a gap in recycling facilities, the community decided to design effective collection points, fostering widespread participation. A comprehensive questionnaire gauged community interest and perspectives on sustainability. Elevating engagement, a 1:10 scale model was crafted for an open studio visit, allowing residents to actively contribute to the design of versatile furniture sets. From meetings to workshops, each phase champions a holistic, inclusive approach to sustainability, creating a community rooted in shared values and a greener ethos.
Transformative Neighborhood Feast 08
Project: Transformative Neighborhood feast
Location: Chengdu, China
Completion time: 2024
The project commenced with a pivotal meeting at the residents’ community foundation, where we collectively explored strategies to reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and enhance community sustainability. This initial discussion sparked a collaborative effort to address these concerns. Following the meeting, residents extended an invitation to join them for site visits to evaluate existing community recycling bins. Identifying a gap in proper recycling facilities, the community expressed a desire to design effective collection points, fostering widespread participation in sustainability initiatives.
To gauge community interest and opinions, a comprehensive questionnaire was distributed among residents, workers, and visitors. The responses provided valuable insights into the community’s willingness to engage in sustainability events and their perspectives on fostering a sustainable environment.
Taking community involvement to the next level, a 1:10 scale model was crafted for an open studio visit. Residents were invited to shape their own ideas for furniture sets, encouraging active participation in the design process. This collaborative journey reflects a community-driven approach to sustainability, emphasizing shared responsibility and fostering a sense of ownership in shaping a greener future.
Image A - Cummunity Meeting with Residents
Image B - Open Studio Visit
Image C - Questionnaire to Collects Local thoughts
Image D - Community Exhibition in A4 Art Museum
Image A
Image B
Image C
Image D
The essence of the chair’s concept lies in a thoughtful exploration of materiality.
Originating from a sheet format, the material served as the foundational inspiration, shaping the chair’s design. Through a meticulous process, the chair is folded from a single sheet, evolving into a distinctive three-dimensional form.
This concept extends seamlessly to the community furniture set, designed for adaptability. Easily transformable into various shapes, the furniture set accommodates diverse scenarios, adjusting effortlessly to different usage and varying numbers of individuals. This flexibility not only enhances functionality but also empowers the community with versatile options for communal spaces, aligning with a dynamic and evolving communal lifestyle.
Image A
Image B
Image A - Chair Folding Concept
Image B - Material bending Test
Image C - Material bending Test
Image C
Image A- Chair Render
Image B - Material bending Test
The chair, having undergone successful bending tests, is presently in the manufacturing phase, with an expected release in early 2024. The testing process commenced with both 10mm and 20mm thickness boards, given the novel nature of the material.
Given its limited bending examples compared to other materials, we conducted tests at varying temperatures and timeframes for heating, refining the optimal method to bend the material. This meticulous testing showcases the seamless integration of design and manufacturing processes, reflecting a commitment to innovation in both functionality and sustainability within the community.
Image A
Image B
20mm board
10mm board
Stellaris blends the celestial and aquatic realms in a captivating art installation. Its centerpiece, a sculptural lampshade crafted from translucent materials, mirrors the organic forms of deep-sea life and the cosmic wonders of distant galaxies. When illuminated, “Stellaris” transforms into a mesmerizing display of shifting hues, reminiscent of the auroras’ dance in the night sky. Layers of color cascade through the structure, creating dynamic interplays of light and shadow that evoke a sense of wonder and exploration. Conductive circuits subtly enhance the effect, pulsating with light to accentuate its contours. “Stellaris” invites viewers to immerse themselves in its otherworldly ambiance, where the mysteries of space and the serenity of the ocean converge harmoniously. It serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of natural beauty, inspiring awe and contemplation through its fusion of art, science, and the natural world.
Stellaris 08
Project: Stellaris
Location: Bristol, UK
Completion time: 2024 (to be completed)
“Stellaris” emerges from a meticulous origami folding process, where the goal is to achieve intricate, free-standing geometries capable of integrating conductive circuits seamlessly. This fusion of art and technology enables the lampshade not only to illuminate but also to serve as a canvas where light and functionality harmonize.
Extensive material exploration has been pivotal in shaping “Stellaris”. Various papers, from traditional Kozo to modern Plike and tracing paper, were tested to assess their translucency and light diffusion qualities. Additionally, films were experimented with to enhance the ethereal effects, ensuring each fold and crease contributes to the dynamic interplay of light and shadow.
Lighting and shadow play a crucial role in the project’s development. Different lighting setups were meticulously evaluated to enhance the lampshade’s ability to transform, revealing a spectrum of hues akin to the dancing auroras. Shadows were manipulated to highlight the structure’s elegance and depth, adding another layer of visual intrigue to the installation.
“Stellaris” exemplifies the intersection of creativity and innovation, where the artistry of origami meets the practicality of modern technology, resulting in a captivating blend of form and function.
Image A - Material Test
Image B - Light Test
Image C - Shadow Test
Mi Ding ARB
Mi Ding, a creative journeywoman, weaves together the threads of artistic ingenuity, crafting narratives that illuminate the intersection of human and their environment. Originating from the vibrant tapestry of China, her journey led her to the shores of the United Kingdom, where she refined her skills at the Architectural Association School of Architecture.
Imbued with a passion for innovation, Mi's artistic exploration traverses realms both terrestrial and ethereal. From the concrete jungles of spatial exploration to the ephemeral landscapes of immersive installations and animations, she paints with the palette of possibility, daring to envision a world where art dances in harmonious cadence.
At the heart of Mi's creative pursuit lies a profound commitment to community and connection. Through her immersive experiences, Mi catalyzes conversations that transcend borders, fostering empathy and understanding across diverse landscapes.
Guided by the ethos of sustainability and resourcefulness, Mi's artistic practice embodies a spirit of democratization, adeptly transforming a diverse array of everyday materials into vessels of expression and change. Whether it's recycled plastics, repurposed cardboard, or other innovative mediums, she demonstrates a remarkable ability to breathe new life into the ordinary, tailoring her material choices and designs to suit the unique needs and contexts of each project. Through her adaptive approach, Mi invites audiences to reimagine their relationship with the world around them, showcasing the transformative power of creativity in fostering environmental consciousness and societal change.
As an interdisciplinary artist, Mi's work serves as a bridge between disciplines, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of discovery where art and community converge. With each creation, she seeks not only to captivate the senses but also to ignite a spark of inspiration that kindles meaningful dialogue and collective action. In Mi's world, art is not merely an object of contemplation but a catalyst for transformation, forging connections that transcend boundaries and illuminate the shared journey of humanity.
Education University of Westminster
Part 3
Architectural Association School of Architecture
AA Diploma
University of Liverpool
Bachelor of Art
Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
Bachelor of Engineering
Lotus, Waterfront, Who? Exhibition
https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/q7ZDMx-yh32NrjVuoxIsoQ https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/wfdV6nbDTvk58GGKyhP25Q
A Re-Create Exhibition
https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/ns1uZDepbjy61ajyyyO_LA https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/ns1uZDepbjy61ajyyyO_LA
A4 International Residency Centre China Beijing Architecture Biennale
Thomas Heatherwick & Patrick Schumacher Interview Producer
https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/KinDyP8cWZZT27zdGFspZg https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/A5eIkewZ7n1d7y8Awj3ozw
London Festival of Architecture "Sitting Pretty" Competition
Shortlisted
Architects' Journal
https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/rising-starsshortlisted-for-new-network-rail-station-seating
Public Recognition
A4 Art Museum
Work Experience
Sybarite A4 International Residency
Chengdu, China 2023
Center for Print Research UWE
Bristol, UK 2024
Architect
Heatherwick Studio Designer Project Coordinator
Harry Dobbs Design
Architectural Designer
Troika
Artist Assistant
Steven Chilton Architects
Architectural Assistant
ODAS
Architectural Assistant
London, UK 2022
London, UK 2018 & 2020
London, UK 2019-2020
London, UK 2018
London, UK 2017
Chengdu, China 2015-2016
Architecture Foundation 100 day's Studio
https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=ut7Gtaay6rfJaz1I&v=C0b46 WH0mB0&feature=youtu.be
1314 Design & Art Magazine
Thomas Heatherwick & Patrick Schumacher Interview Producer
Global Talent
Endorsed as potential leader in the field by RIBA and Art Council England
AA Summer Show
Summer Exhibition with work published in Project Review 2017