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Water Care Torlley Racing

Community Art Project (2022)

Runze Feng (Curator)

In response to concerns over river pollution linked to industrial development in Shunde, I launched the "Water Care Trolly Racing" initiative in Hecheng Community. Inspired by Weimar's "Seifenkisten Rennen" (soap box racing), the project centered on water conservation, encouraging residents to design and race water-themed handcrafted trolleys. With logistical support from the local Residents’ Committee and Vanke Property Services, the event sparked remarkable enthusiasm and moving personal stories: Designer Mr. Lee carved out precious time to co-create "Smooth Waters" – a dragon-boat-inspired trolley winning the "Best Creative Design Award"; the Vanke team built "Withered Tree," a poignant wheelchair installation made from reclaimed materials that clinched the "Most Compassionate Design Award"; a 9-year-old boy dreaming of purifying water for Mars astronauts collaborated with his mom on the second-prize "Mars Racer"; while my family transformed my son’s stroller into the "Trolly Care" submarine, symbolizing human-nature symbiosis. Race day buzzed with energy as residents shared stories, cheered racers, and later paraded winning trolleys to promote eco-awareness. Blending fun, creativity, and purpose, it became a signature annual event embraced by the community and media. What made it special? It turned a serious environmental issue into joyful public engagement – moving beyond passive listeners to active participants who naturally discussed water conservation while building, racing, and spectating. The ripple effect continued as passionate participants like Jojoey initiated follow-up community nature programs. Water Care Trolly Racing proved how public art can inject genuine fun into worthy causes while unlocking a community's creativity and drive.

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