Xu Yeheng
Bronze Prize
Title: The Wall of Reconciliation
Competition Theme: Identity and Multiculturalism
Medium: Architecture
Xu Yeheng’s work, “The Wall of Reconciliation,” stands as a response to the historical and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly between Palestine and Israel. Through a deliberate and ambitious architectural design, Xu aims to transcend the entrenched disputes that have marred the region, inspired by the monumental role of the Berlin Wall in German history. The project proposes a structure near Jerusalem's Western Wall that symbolises the bridging of divides. This edifice not only mirrors a wall but also functions as an exhibition hall, displaying artifacts representative of the diverse cultures and religions in the Middle East, with the hope of promoting a narrative of unity and peaceful coexistence.
The judges were impressed with Yeheng’s comprehensive engagement with the intricate historical and sociopolitical narratives, commending the project's thoughtful parallels to other momentous monuments. Yeheng’s video presentation and the detailed site analysis were recognized for their ability to effectively convey the project’s vision and depth. The judges acknowledged Yeheng's work as an enriching contribution to the discourse on global conflict and peace, highlighting the project's potential to encourage harmony and understanding across cultural and political boundaries through architectural intervention, embodying the aspirational goal of dissolving long-standing divisions to foster a united future.