Social Network Factory

LOCATION
Shenzhen, China
DATE
2019
CLIENT
Design Society
TYPE
Permanent Public Art
TEAM
He Zhe, James Shen, Zang Feng, Lin Mingkai, Cui Gangjian, Feng Ziqing, Kong Ming, Xiang Weixing, Liang Xiaomei, Xie Jun

An instrument for discovering new and unexpected ways of aural, visual, and physical interaction, the Social Network Factory is located on the grounds of The Sea World Culture and Arts Center in Shekou, Shenzhen. The entire installation is about six meters high and consists of four sets of surrounding "pipe horns" intertwined in a spatial grid.

The horns of the installation reach outward in multiple directions, mirroring the cantilevered volumes of the Art Center by architect Fumihiko Maki. While Maki’s design directs views toward distant landscapes, the horns of the Social Network Factory project sounds and voices to immediately adjacent areas, including the waterfront promenade, gardens, and museum entrance.  

Functioning on a human scale, the smaller horns allow people to speak directly to each other, while the larger horns are occupiable and provide cover for social activities. The installation’s twisting tubes recall the maritime and industrial heritage of Shekou. They become telescopes, periscopes, and public furniture that facilitate the gathering of people. The public is welcome to explore the Social Network Factory on their own terms.