Echoes of the Hills: A Rushan Culture Odyssey

by Qing (Zoey) Sheng, Yiyi Wang, Fangfei Li

Role

Qing (Zoey) Sheng: Concept Building, Model Building, Exterior Rendering, Section Rendering, Statement Writing

Statement

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Weihai, Shandong Province, this region's topography dates back to the Mesozoic Era, bearing the weight of centuries past. Notably chronicled in the annals of the Song Dynasty, a mystical and enduring myth persists, recounting the heroic story of two goddesses who valiantly combated sea demons and made the ultimate sacrifice, offering sustenance to the local villagers. When viewed through the lens of history, where Weihai served as a bulwark against Japanese invaders, the legend of these two goddesses assumes an even deeper resonance and enduring significance.

 
The architectural design of the Rushan Art Museum harmoniously interweaves the distinctive characteristics of these mythical goddesses with the unique topography of the region. The outcome is a streamlined and seamlessly integrated masterpiece. To ensure an enriching and organized experience for visitors, we have thoughtfully segregated the flow of people, crafting distinct pathways for both local villagers and tourists, each tailored to provide a unique and immersive perspective during their visit. These pathways gracefully merge at the journey's end, symbolizing the unity within the community.

 
Simultaneously, the museum plays host to a women's care center and an intangible cultural heritage area, dedicated to offering support and employment opportunities to local women. This initiative empowers these women to share their personal narratives and showcase the region's rich intangible cultural heritage, including traditions such as Rushan Qinshu and intricate paper-cutting. While the museum exudes a contemporary aesthetic and efficiently manages visitor flow, it remains rooted in its historical origins. Traditional materials are seamlessly integrated into the local architectural design, preserving classical structures that enhance the building's distinctive identity. The Rushan Art
Museum is not just a unique attraction within the Rushan area, drawing in tourists and promoting traditional culture to boost the local economy; it also serves as a guiding light for historical regions across China. It exemplifies the seamless blending of modern architectural excellence with the rich tapestry of history and culture, offering a blueprint for the harmonious coexistence of the past and the present.

Analysis & Form

Plan/ Floor Plan

Section Rendering

Interior Rendering

Using Format