The vast and boundless Pacific Ocean gently embraces the county’s 176-kilometer-long coastline. Located at this significant site—where the ocean is embraced, the dawn is welcomed, and which holds profound meaning in Taitung’s developmental history—the installation of an international landmark is deeply symbolic. Accordingly, the county government invited renowned landscape designer Li Ju-Yi to create the international landmark environmental artwork Watching the Sea, Listening to the Waves – Sunrise Pavilion, based on a design philosophy that respects the existing natural landscape.

In addition, acclaimed artist Wang Wen-Chih was invited to create the large-scale installation artwork Star-Picking Tree, employing contemporary bamboo and rattan weaving techniques. The work resonates with Austronesian culture through the use of bamboo as its primary material, conveying the coexistence of Taitung’s land and its diverse ethnic cultures. Furthermore, the tree-like form symbolizes continuous growth and vitality—reaching upward with aspiration and renewal, while simultaneously rooting downward to express a strong sense of local identity deeply grounded in Taiwan.

Artwork Title: Star-Picking Tree Artist: Wang Wen-Chih On the occasion of the centennial anniversary of the Republic of China, Watching the Sea, Listening to the Waves – Sunrise Pavilion was constructed to express a sustainable vision for Taiwan’s future. It symbolizes the integration of tradition and innovation, as well as the spirit of upward aspiration, and stands as an international landmark for Taitung. Taking Star-Picking Tree as the theme of the public artwork, the piece utilizes bamboo and rattan weaving techniques to convey resilient vitality and humanity’s enduring dreams for the future.From this vantage point overlooking the expansive seascape, shifting light dances between the blue sky and the emerald ocean. Looking up, one observes the convergence and expansion of woven bamboo lines, echoing the rhythms of ocean waves, grasslands, and the star-filled sky above. Here, the breeze, birdsong, and the sound of the sea accompany us as we move toward the future—together, reaching out to pick the stars.