Jun Ong, a renowned artist with a background in architecture, has recently unveiled his latest masterpiece—a mesmerizing light installation titled HALO. Nestled within the Xiu De Bai Pavilion, a former Buddhist temple in the quaint town of Yan Shui, Taiwan, this site-specific artwork exudes a sense of divine radiance that transcends its physical form.
Drawing inspiration from the architectural details of the temple, Ong’s HALO transforms stone and concrete into dynamic materials that interact harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The play of light and shadow not only accentuates the temple’s historic charm but also pays homage to the symbolic significance of light in Buddhist traditions.
In Buddhism, light serves as a powerful metaphor for enlightenment and the dispelling of ignorance. The Buddha himself is often depicted emitting a radiant glow, symbolized by a luminous halo that surrounds his figure. By incorporating this religious symbolism into his installation, Ong invites viewers to contemplate the transformative power of light and the pursuit of spiritual awakening.
Yue Jin Art Museum, the commissioning body behind HALO, describes the installation as a “gap in time” that comes alive through beams of light. The ethereal glow cast by the artwork creates an intangible aura, offering spectators a glimpse into the mystical past of the temple grounds. It’s a visual symphony that resonates with the soul, inviting contemplation and introspection.
This isn’t the first time Jun Ong has captivated audiences with his light installations. His ongoing Star series, which began in 2015 with the STAR/BUTTERWORTH project in Penang, showcases his mastery in manipulating light and architecture to create awe-inspiring works of art. Using simple materials like tensile steel cables and LED strips, Ong crafts monumental structures that challenge our perception of space and time.
One of Ong’s recent installations, POLARIS, made waves at the Amsterdam Light Festival in celebration of the city’s 750-year anniversary. Reshaping the city’s skyline with its celestial presence, POLARIS serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water, land, and human movement in urban landscapes. The star-shaped installation acts as a beacon of light, guiding visitors through a journey of discovery and wonder.
To explore more of Jun Ong’s breathtaking installations and stay updated on his latest projects, be sure to visit his website and follow him on Instagram. Immerse yourself in the luminous world of this visionary artist, where light and architecture converge to create moments of transcendence and beauty.
As Jun Ong continues to push the boundaries of light artistry, his creations serve as a testament to the enduring power of creativity and innovation in shaping our world. Through his work, he invites us to see the world in a new light, where shadows fade away, and possibilities shine bright.
