Inspired by this artistry, the thesis explores the possibilities of reviving the Dou gong method through modern fabrication. It follows the process of research, design, build and application of an architectural installation to critically question: how can we employ the advancement of modern technology to revive a long-lost ancient building technique of the traditional Chinese joinery system, and create a monumental piece in commemoration of the COVID-19 global pandemic?
This ancient artform's beauty lies within the craftsmanship that demands high precision cuts for each piece to perfectly join together. The once repetitive and labour-intensive complex joints can now be programmed and mass-produced, allowing for efficient and effective construction.
The practical approach of the project has led to the design of two different scaled architectural installations: the realisation of the 'Hashtag Wish Tree' for the annual Auckland Art Week and Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens Exhibition, and the 'Sentimental Piece' proposal as one of the top finalists for the 2020 Brick Bay Competition.