This artwork, titled Yin and Yang, draws inspiration from the concept of balance and harmony, integrating layers of 1920s urban planning, current aerial photography, and urban mobility data to create a multi-faceted narrative about the evolution of urban landscapes and the future of transportation. The 1920s urban planning layer reveals the foundational layout and intent of early suburban design, juxtaposed with a current aerial photo that highlights present-day dwellings and the densification of urban form. Traffic count data along main roads provides insights into contemporary mobility patterns, emphasizing the dominance of car dependency and its impact on the suburban environment.

In the foreground, the yin and yang symbol takes center stage, acting as a visual metaphor for achieving balance in urban mobility. This ancient Chinese symbol, recognized across many cultures, serves as a unifying element, resonating with Box Hill’s diverse community, particularly its large Chinese population. The yin and yang motif symbolizes the need to harmonize contrasting forces: private car reliance and alternative modes of transport, such as cycling, walking, and public transit.

The artwork advocates for a shift toward more sustainable and balanced mobility options, envisioning a future where public transport and active transport modes take precedence, reducing the environmental footprint of urban movement. By embedding this message within a culturally resonant framework, the piece seeks to inspire conversations about creating equitable, efficient, and environmentally friendly urban mobility systems. It challenges viewers to rethink traditional modes of transportation and embrace holistic solutions that align with the principles of balance, equity, and sustainability.