Mariko Mori Unveils Ring Sculpture for Rio Olympics, Inspired by Dream and Buddhist Philosophy

Mariko Mori, a Japanese artist, is set to unveil a permanent ring sculpture measuring 3 meters in diameter at the summit of a 58-meter waterfall located in the Brazilian rainforest, approximately 90 minutes from Rio de Janeiro. This installation, named Ring: One with Nature, will debut on August 3, 2016, as part of the Celebra Cultural Program for the Rio 2016 Olympics. The artwork, inspired by a dream Mori experienced seven years prior, represents concepts of unity, eternity, and wholeness rooted in Buddhist philosophy. Constructed from light-reactive acrylic, it transitions in color from blue to gold and is designed to align with the sun during the Solstice on June 21. Supported by the Faou Foundation, which Mori established in 2011 to promote ecological awareness through monumental art, the project involved two years of research with engineers to develop a sustainable, durable material. This installation embodies Mori's continuous investigation into themes of interconnectedness and environmentalism in her artistic practice.