Resonance : a site-specific immersive installation for the vanishing Yellow River Stone Forest : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a Master in Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand

Abstract

The Yellow River Stone Forest (‘YRSF’) is a unique geological landscape in Jingtai County, Gansu Province, China. It records the Yellow River Basin's geological evolution and cultural memories. However, due to the construction plan of the Heishanxia Dam on the upper reaches of the Yellow River, a large part of the Yellow River Stone Forest is at risk of being permanently submerged, and its natural landscape and cultural value may disappear. Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province, is an important cultural town shaped by the Yellow River. Over time, Lanzhou City has relied on the river for its economic and social developments, and the local community holds deep cultural and emotional ties to this landscape. Thus, the challenge faced by the YRSF also impacts the cultural memory shared by the residents. This makes it particularly important to create an artwork about the Yellow River Stone Forest in Lanzhou’s public space. Choosing the Yellow River Stone Forest as a source of inspiration, and the Longyuan Park in Lanzhou as the installation location, this research investigates how site-specific intermedia installations can effectively encourage a deeper emotional and cultural connection of the Lanzhou Community to the YRSF before its submersion by offering collective reflection and interaction opportunities. Using Leyla Acaroglu’s Disruptive Design Method (DDM), this study investigates how intermedia—projection, spatial composition, and sensory experience can create a unique visitor experience beyond traditional narratives such as documentaries, static photography, or museum-style exhibitions. By integrating with its surroundings, the installation transforms the YRSF into a perceptible and interactive presence, prompting the Lanzhou community to reflect on its connection with this changing landscape.