A Luminous Ark

This bespoke installation by Qiuwen Wen was created by combining traditional Chinese lantern-making techniques with a paper sculpture process developed by the artist. Each large-scale bird was built from Tyvek paper, with feathers and details meticulously cut by hand. A hand forged metal skeleton ensures structural strength, and supports the internal lighting system. Suspended above the monumental staircase leading to the Palladian Refectory, the sculptures are based on drawings of Venetian birds by Es Devlin and her team. Kestrels, egrets, herons, terns and other species glow like lanterns in a tribute to the natural ecosystem of Venice, inviting reflection on the relationship between humans and their environment.

CRAFTED BY

Qiuwen Wen 温秋雯

Paper artist | Hangzhou, China