Installation

Blance Island

Work by

Huiqun Xu
Mi Yan

Published in

2021

Supervised by

Introduce:

BLANCE ISLAND investigates the intricate and often paradoxical relationship between marine ecosystems and anthropogenic influence. Through a sculptural installation that merges the aesthetic elegance of coral reefs with mutated, humanoid flounder forms, the work critically examines the impact of human activities—particularly chemical emissions and plastic pollution—on marine life. Constructed using sustainable materials, such as paper pulp, recycled plastic, and eco-friendly foam rubber, BLANCE ISLAND emphasizes an ethical approach to artistic practice while embodying environmental consciousness.

Conceptual Framework:

The hybrid forms at the center of this work are intentionally distorted, embodying the alterations imposed on marine species due to industrial waste and pollution. These sculptures juxtapose natural coral-like elements with anthropomorphized marine life forms, serving as a metaphor for the pervasive and insidious transformations occurring within oceanic environments as a result of human activity. By blending human and marine anatomies, the work visualizes the erosion of boundaries between natural ecosystems and the consequences of human intrusion, capturing the discord between ecological harmony and modern industrial impact.

Methodology and Materials:

Each element within the installation is crafted from sustainable materials—paper pulp, recycled plastic, eco-friendly foam rubber, and other resources chosen to align with the project’s thematic focus on environmental responsibility. The selection of materials is not merely aesthetic but represents a deliberate commentary on the feasibility and necessity of sustainable practices in both art and industry.

Significance:

BLANCE ISLAND serves as both an artistic exploration and a socio-environmental critique, offering a visual narrative that addresses the vulnerability of marine ecosystems in the face of industrial encroachment. By engaging audiences with visually striking, ecologically inspired forms, this work prompts critical reflection on humanity’s role in the degradation of natural environments and the ethical imperatives of ecological preservation. Through its unsettling beauty, BLANCE ISLAND underscores the complex interplay between adaptation and degradation, inviting viewers to contemplate the broader implications of ecological imbalance in the Anthropocene.

Bibliography

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Curtis, D.J., Reid, N. and Ballard, G., 2012. Communicating ecology through art: what scientists think. Ecology and Society, 17(2).

Gallo, F. and Tosti, E., 2019. Effects of marine pollutants on gametes and embryos of marine animals. Frontiers in Marine Science, 6, p.633.

Geissdoerfer, M., Savaget, P., Bocken, N.M. and Hultink, E.J., 2017. The Circular Economy–A new sustainability paradigm?. Journal of cleaner production, 143, pp.757-768.

Halpern, B.S., Frazier, M., Potapenko, J., Casey, K.S., Koenig, K., Longo, C., Lowndes, J.S., Rockwood, R.C., Selig, E.R., Selkoe, K.A. and Walbridge, S., 2015. Spatial and temporal changes in cumulative human impacts on the world’s ocean. Nature communications, 6(1), pp.1-7.

Islam, M.S. and Tanaka, M., 2004. Impacts of pollution on coastal and marine ecosystems including coastal and marine fisheries and approach for management: a review and synthesis. Marine pollution bulletin, 48(7-8), pp.624-649.

Jambeck, J.R., Geyer, R., Wilcox, C., Siegler, T.R., Perryman, M., Andrady, A., Narayan, R. and Law, K.L., 2015. Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean. Science, 347(6223), pp.768-771.

Lotze, H.K., Lenihan, H.S., Bourque, B.J., Bradbury, R.H., Cooke, R.G., Kay, M.C., Kidwell, S.M., Kirby, M.X., Peterson, C.H. and Jackson, J.B., 2006. Depletion, degradation, and recovery potential of estuaries and coastal seas. Science, 312(5781), pp.1806-1809.

Marks, M., Chandler, L. and Baldwin, C., 2017. Environmental art as an innovative medium for environmental education in Biosphere Reserves. Environmental Education Research, 23(9), pp.1307-1321.

Pauly, D., 1995. Anecdotes and the shifting baseline syndrome of fisheries. Trends in ecology & evolution, 10(10), p.430.

Steffen, W., Broadgate, W., Deutsch, L., Gaffney, O. and Ludwig, C., 2015. The trajectory of the Anthropocene: the great acceleration. The Anthropocene Review, 2(1), pp.81-98.

Thornes, J.E., 2008. A rough guide to environmental art. Annual Review of Environment and Resources, 33, pp.391-411.

Ethical Statement

This project, whether presented as a work, video, or research article, is committed to upholding the principles of diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity. All individuals and communities are represented with respect, recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives and the value that different backgrounds bring to scholarly work. Care is taken to approach any references to racial, ethnic, cultural, gender, or other identities with sensitivity, avoiding misrepresentation, stereotyping, or bias.

In adherence to ethical research standards, this project seeks to promote equity and inclusivity, avoiding harm or exclusionary practices. Respect for the rights and identities of all groups is fundamental, and efforts are made to foster a respectful and inclusive environment throughout the work. Feedback from individuals and communities represented is valued, with any concerns regarding portrayal or use of content welcomed for consideration.

This project remains committed to creating an academic space that values the dignity and contributions of all individuals, aligning with the principles of fairness, empathy, and mutual respect.

All original materials within this project, including text, images, graphics, logos, code, and designs, are protected by copyright and remain the exclusive property of their creators. Unauthorized use, reproduction, modification, or distribution is strictly prohibited and may lead to legal action.

This project may also reference materials from third parties, such as images, artworks, film clips, music, and academic citations, used under fair use provisions for educational and research purposes only. Copyright for these referenced materials remains with the original owners.

Intellectual Property Notice

All materials within this project are protected by intellectual property laws, and any use of these materials must respect and uphold the intellectual property rights of their respective owners. Any permissible use must include proper attribution and adhere to applicable licensing terms. For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us directly.

Usage Disclaimer

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Blance Island

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