Public Art @ Penglai I always insist that the concept of my public artworks be built around bringing a space to life, and being used in real life and in real activities. This public art installation is meant to alter the concept of a “wall.” A primary motivation for this is the proposition of turning space around. The installation of “Dialogue” is not meant as a wall at one end of a room blocking people from coming and going, but rather as something that is moveable, with two faces, something that can be penetrated by the light and the breeze, and can be viewed from two different sides, directions and layers. We are drawn to it, because it is a space that can easily be moved, where fantasy can take part in altering it, a lively place that can inspire our bodies and minds when we use it. Through the installation of public art, art is able to enter the confines of a school. For me, public art is not a “work” that, once installed, can never be moved. Public art must do more than carry out the aesthetic desires of the artist. It must be organic. It must be a genuine catalyst in the lives of people. The installation “Dialogue” starts from the most fundamental and the most complex artistic perceptions – points, lines, planes, colors and sounds, engaging in a perpetual dialogue with the body. The “dialogue” that takes place in this installation is a dialogue between the artist who installed it and the students and teachers who use it afterwards. Through the creativity of art education, they will always have the opportunity to maintain a dialogue with this installation, and to change it, making “Dialogue” an element that elicits sensitivity to the space. When I heard the words “Peng-Lai Elementary School” the first image that flashed into my mind was the ancient mythological island of Penglai, “a mountain of the immortals across the sea, floating in the midst of nothingness.” The inner texture of “Dialogue” is a symphony, consisting of the constant alteration and harmony of artistic elements, gaining completion through human creativity and the artwork’s intermingling with its surroundings. Instructions for Use: Instructions for the safe use of this artwork by children are clearly stated below. All teachers should guide, explain and encourage students in its safe use during class. Students should use this artwork during art or music class. This installation should be altered in an planned and orderly manner. Those who are practicing for performance are welcome to use this moveable piece of educational equipment. Do not climb, push, scratch or hit the installation. Learning to properly treat an art installation in a school is the perfect opportunity for children to learn how to come into contact with all public art. Just as you cannot reach out and touch an animal when you see it, so you cannot climb on an object when you see it. Incorrect use of “Dialogue” will endanger the safety of both the art and people. Please do not treat public art improperly – this is the first rule in public art appreciation! Bars and fencing only serve as prime motivations for children to climb and transgress boundaries. Patiently teaching correct concepts is the effective, responsible and creative way to protect this work of art.