A FEARLESS WORLD
Sculptures / 2022-2023
P R E M I S E
In a prosperous post-2090s world, humanity's lack of challenges stifles innovation, prompting the X Republic government to launch the Fearless Program by the late 21st century. This mandatory initiative simulates physical and mental obstacles for children to foster resilience and creativity...
E X P E R T I S E
Concept Art
Art Direction
Environment Design
Sculpture
C R E D I T
Ang Abdiel - Director
James Nguyen - Creative Dir.
Ky Huynh - Head Op.
Harry Nguyen - Assist. 3D Artist
Team Beyond Us
E X C A L I B U R B U I L D I N G
The Excalibur Building, a towering eco-brutalist venue for international theater, features entrance sculptures depicting Merlin guiding King Arthur to the mythical sword Excalibur, granted by the Lady of the Lake—a Western tale blending history and myth. Its Soviet-inspired brutalist concrete, softened by greenery, contrasts bright, night-lit sculptures, suggesting a utopian facade that masks an oppressive order and potential dystopian stagnation.
I C O N O L O G Y
In alchemical iconology, Mercury (Merlin’s staff) purifies Gold (King Arthur’s chestpiece), symbolizing knowledge as the catalyst for Excalibur’s discovery and Arthur’s rise to greatness. The Lady of the Lake, an arm offering the sheath amid flowing water, embodies chaotic nature shaping potential for order.
F R E E M I N D S
Free Minds public sculpture resides in an oridnary neighborhood where people walk by and hang out. Inspired by the brutalist utopic dream, the fountain set conveys that freedom of thought requires some form of breaking away from the mould; and moments of revelation come along like a strike to our psyche, making our yearn to be free burst outward.
