"CalligraHaven" Installations

UIA-HYP CUP 2023 | Team Project | 3 Months Honourable Mention UIA-HYP CUP 2023 | Team Project | 3 Months

DESCRIPTION

This initiative aims to improve mental health in Beijing’s densely populated Huilongguan West Street Community by integrating urban science and psychological health research. The design features various calligraphy spaces suitable for different age groups, emphasizing this practice as a means to achieve mental balance and tranquility in urban life. Additionally, the incorporation of greenery and plants enhances the serene atmosphere. The project's core objective is to foster an environment that aids in regulating physical and mental well-being, thus promoting psychological therapy and physical exercise. The overarching aim is to create a setting that embodies “beauty in life,” contributing to better mental health in urban areas.

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a 25% increase in global anxiety and depression cases during its first year, contributing to 53 million additional depression cases and 76 million more cases of anxiety. This situation underscores the need for a heightened focus on mental health and additional resources, particularly in China.

BASIC IDEA

China's calligraphy, a tradition that promotes balance and well-being, presents potential therapeutic approaches in the context of rising mental health issues. The 2022 TikTok (Douyin) Calligraphy Data Report indicates significant growth in this area, particularly in Beijing, evidenced by over 10.74 billion views and 3 billion likes, underscoring its appeal to the younger generation and highlighting the opportunity for utilizing calligraphy in art therapy.

Our Vision

i. Uniting calligraphy enthusiasts to foster mental well-being and community interaction.
ii. Digitally archiving calligraphy works annually to build a memory repository for the city.
iii. Analyzing this data to gain insights into individuals' mental health, thereby laying the foundation for a promising future."

SITE

Location

Beijing, the capital of China, is celebrated for its deep cultural heritage and history, attracting many with its historical allure and skilled calligraphers.

Changping District, in northwest Beijing, is home to 2.27 million people, with 21% being calligraphy enthusiasts, underscoring the art’s cultural significance in Beijing.

PHYSICAL MODEL

Icon Model

This model creates an all-encompassing space for calligraphy, transforming every surface into a canvas. It allows calligraphy to permeate our environment, interacting with our surroundings. This unique space amplifies the charm of calligraphy, offering an immersive, artistic experience at any time, anywhere.

PLAN