marcel wanders' inflatable egg-shaped objects at OPAM museum in japan

displayed at the oita prefectural art museum in japan, the ‘eurasian garden spirits’ is a site-specific installation by designer marcel wanders, composed of seven inflatable balloons depicting unique flower patterns. influenced by the historical narrative of dutch explorers first arriving in japan in the 16th century, this artwork symbolizes the cultural union and exchange between holland and japan.

eurasian garden at oita prefectural art museum
video courtsey of marcel wanders

marcel wanders‘ egg-shaped objects at the oita prefectural art museum are an homage to both the free-spirited original travelers and the dutch ideas that have spread across the world. furthermore, the ‘eurasian garden spirits’ is a contemporary re-interpretation of vanitas — a 17th-century conception in dutch art — which has gained worldwide recognition. looking closely at the artwork, the flower patterns remind visitors of nature’s cycle and the inevitable passing of time. in parallel, the designer blends abstracted representation of faces with his floral motifs to illustrate the mortality of human beings.

marcel wanders inflatable egg-shaped objects
all images courtesy of marcel wanders

to create a stable structure, the designer collaborated with dutch company buitink technology which manufactured and powered the inflatable objects of the installation. reaching five meters in height and filled with air, each balloon is heavy enough to stay grounded in one spot but still manages to gently sway from side to side. this effect is created thanks to bowl-shaped weights that have been placed on the bottom parts of the inflatable objects.

the displayed pieces symbolize the cultural union and exchange between holland and japan

the site-specific installation is comprised of seven inflatable structures

marcel wanders inflatable egg-shaped objects stand five meters tall 

opening of the exhibition, displaying the ‘eurasian garden spirits’ installation of marcel wanders

looking closely, each inflatable balloon depicts a face which symbolizes mortality

the pieces are influenced by the historical narrative of dutch explorers first arriving in japan in the 16th century

the unique flower patterns reflect on the cycle of nature and passing of time

marcel wanders, designer of the ‘eurasian garden spirits’ installation

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edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom