CHENG YANG

The choral performance brought about by the genes of the incense tree without human participation as a conductor may sound chaotic, but it is a prerequisite for the maintenance of “harmonious” dynamics. In botanical studies, it has been shown that maintaining genetic diversity makes incense trees more resistant to environmental changes and disease problems, and incense trees need this adaptability.

By converting genetic data into different frequencies of sound waves, we can hear this nature-driven chorus. As each tree’s genetic data differs, each tree’s sound will be different. It is this audible “disharmony” that reflects the current genetic diversity of the incense tree.

“Symbiosis” not only depicts the ideal state of the interaction between the incense tree and other species, but also represents heaven, earth, and human beings as interconnected in an organic unity, in line with the “unity of heaven and humanity” in Chinese philosophy. The ancients created traditional festivals by observing and mastering celestial phenomena, seasonal and climate changes. In some worship activities, incense is often burned to communicate with heaven and earth. These traditions continue to this day in Hong Kong temples, where incense is kept burning for prayer, as believers seek energy from heaven and earth. Incorporating the incense coils into this installation also encourages the audience to listen to the sound of the incense tree with reverence for the deities, and to re-examine the traditional cultural interpretation of the relationship between humans and nature.