Rocker of Abundance is a 8’x5’x2’ interactive kinetic seating which has been to Burning Man, weddings, and various neighborhood events in San Francisco such as Sunday Streets in Chinatown and Artscape in the outer Sunset. Its form is a hybrid of different influences and combines the aesthetic of traditional Chinese papercuts with park bench seating and playground structures. In Mandarin, yu is a homophone for fish and abundance. On one side, a fish cutout rises over the seat. This represents auspiciousness, prosperity and fertility through many different cultures and religions, including Christianity, Hinduism, and Jainism.
The butterfly side of the piece represents metamorphosis, personal transformation and change. As we are all experiencing a time of uncertainty, we can also be reminded of the past and where we have been. On a 5ft stand that serves as a sign holder you’ll find a series of questions that helps two people realize that there is commonality between them. These thought provoking prompts allow each person to self reflect and (re)discover parts of their life experience that many had forgotten about until now - something most of us tend to look past as we are distracted by work, career status, and family expectations.
As two people coordinate their bodies and seats to the rocking base, they will set into motion a soothing back and forth motion. An oval frame encircles the piece, allowing for a comfortable place for participants to dive into deeper conversations, and delight in finding surprising answers.
After sitting dormant throughout the Pandemic, in 2022, the piece went through a major revitalization and was brought back to life for a wedding. Among the modifications and updates are reinforced base, coat of paint, lights, and hardware that allows the piece to disassemble into flatpack pieces for ease of transport. In addition, a sign post with a series of questions was created to prompt participants into deeper connection.
The rocker encourages its participants to explore balance, compromise, and a give and take. It has been enjoyed by strangers who have befriended one another and lovers—new and old—have particularly enjoyed the intimacy that the rocker offers.
Available for bookings for private events and parties. To inquire, please email rockerofabundance@gmail.com