through line

Whether navigating the complexity of events, concepts, or scientific disciplines, we often rely on a unifying "through line" to connect diverse and seemingly unrelated elements. Through Line, located at the life-sciences RaDD research center, draws inspiration from our shared human capacity to find commonality within difference.

The unique geographic contours of San Diego and its surrounding landscapes serve as the foundational DNA for Through Line's design. This singular outline, shaped by significant regional geographic features, captures the distinct identity of San Diego. From this initial form, a more intricate and interwoven pathway emerges, evolving the artwork from a singular "figure" into an all-encompassing "field." Representationally, Through Line connects San Diego’s diverse neighborhoods, winding its way through the landscape and symbolically linking the city’s vibrant communities.

At its core, Through Line is one continuous line. It can be traced from the ocean to the land, culminating at the RaDD site in downtown San Diego, creating a tapestry of visual connections along its path. Echoing RaDD's mission in life sciences research and development, the artwork bridges a spectrum of references: land contours, cellular structures, weather patterns, growth rings, and biomorphic life forms.

Ultimately, Through Line mirrors the iterative processes of experimentation, research, and creativity—finding moments of clarity within the meandering, exploratory paths of discovery. It stands as both a visual and conceptual metaphor for the interconnectedness of science, creativity, and community.

Invited Artist Competition for the RaDD/Research and Development District + IQHQ Waterfront Public Art Initiative

My Role

In this project, my role included conceptual development, design refinement, parametric design, modeling, drafting, rendering, and final image processing.

Faulders Studio team

Thom Faulders, Yue Liu, Baowen Jiang, Haonan Jia

San Diego, CA_2021