Harnessing Solar Energy: A Cross-Cultural Exploration of Aesthetics, Philosophy, and Sustainability
Xinyi Li
Each time I open my eyes, I reflect on how to store my energy. The sun captivates me with its mysterious power. This
thesis explores solar energy as a medium, integrating its storage principles with the Chinese philosophy of Qi and the
Five Elements. Through this fusion, it seeks to create a new sustainable design language and revive cultural reflections
on energy storage.
Book Cover
My cover design incorporates the core principles explored in this book by integrating the symbolic elements of the five phases—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth—with the sun, visually conveying the central theme and purpose of the thesis.
Illuminating Solar Energy: A Fusion of Ancient Wisdom and Artistic Spirit
This spread combines gradient text and a glowing sun to merge ancient wisdom with artistic expression, symbolizing the philosophical, aesthetic, and spiritual resonance of solar energy.
Integrating Solar Energy and Technology: The Perfect Blend of Aesthetics and Functionality
This page illustrates the integration of solar energy and technology, highlighting its contributions to both aesthetics and functionality.
Chapter 2: The Interconnection of Qi, the Five Elements, and Solar Energy
This page features numerous human silhouette outlines intertwined, visually representing the deep connection between Qi, the Five Elements, and solar energy. The layered outlines symbolize the flow of energy and harmony, reflecting both personal and philosophical explorations of these ancient concepts.
Chapter 3: Harnessing Solar Energy: The Interplay of Technology, Spirituality, and the Five Elements
This page uses different colored panels to represent Technology, Spirituality, and the Five Elements, highlighting their interconnected roles in harnessing solar energy.
Final Chapter: The Five Elements System Inspired by Solar Energy — Installation Concept Sketches
This final chapter showcases concept sketches of an installation representing a Five Elements system inspired by the symbolism and power of solar energy. The designs illustrate how solar energy’s essence is integrated into the traditional Five Elements framework, bridging ancient philosophy with modern innovation.
Five Elements Design and Textures: Focus on Wood Element and Five Elements Textures
This page showcases the overall Five Elements design, with an emphasis on the Wood element design symbolizing growth and vitality. On the left side, texture designs representing Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth highlight the unique characteristics and essence of each element, providing a rich and tactile foundation for the Five Elements system.
Wood and Fire Elements in the Five Elements Installation
This page highlights the Wood and Fire components within the Five Elements installation, showcasing their distinct designs and symbolic meanings in the system.
Wood and Fire Elements in the Five Elements Installation
This page presents the actual Wood and Fire elements featured in the Five Elements installation, highlighting their specific designs and symbolic meanings within the overall system.