Tidal Ring

“Tidal Ring” is a landmark digital light sculpture custom-designed for the Qingdao Metro Group. Qingdao, a renowned port city on the Chinese mainland, is bordered by the sea on three sides and by mountains on one, seamlessly connecting land and sea.

As the city’s transportation lifeline, Qingdao Metro functions like the city’s underground veins, linking various areas. Thus, “Tidal Ring” is based on the concept of the Möbius ring, symbolizing infinite possibilities and future expansion. Lighting plays a crucial role in this installation. Utilizing computer data science, the system captures real-time tidal data for Qingdao every hour through an open API, adjusting the sculpture's lighting speed based on these data changes. These figures are not merely cold numbers but represent the pulse of the city and nature, reflecting the rhythm of the ocean and the city.

The lighting speed dynamically adjusts according to tidal data, vividly depicting coastal tidal movements and closely connecting mountains, sea, city, and everything in between. Through this installation, we are not merely creating a piece of art but infusing the city with positive energy. It enables people to experience the harmonious coexistence of nature and urban life, while also reminding us to cherish this harmony, grow together, and build a brighter future.