Ocean Room
Durham, North Carolina
NAME
Ocean Room
MEDIUM Corrugated polypropylene, steel screws,
carpet, floor chairs, notebook, projection video
TYPE Installation
LOCATION Durham, North Carolina
YEAR 2019
MEDIUM Corrugated polypropylene, steel screws,
carpet, floor chairs, notebook, projection video
TYPE Installation
LOCATION Durham, North Carolina
YEAR 2019
DESCRIPTIONOcean Room is a life-sized, 9-foot-tall dome installed at the center of a dark room. Video projections of rolling waves illuminate the dome’s exterior, while the sounds and scent of the ocean immerse visitors in a multisensory seascape. Inside, a carpet-lined floor, two chairs, and a communal notebook invite reflection, conversation, and creative expression.
Born from a desire to create a meditative, refuge-like space at Duke University, Ocean Room serves as a sanctuary from the outside world. Throughout its exhibition, it welcomed hundreds of visitors, from Duke students and faculty to guests from Durham and the wider Triangle area, each seeking a moment of stillness.
At its core, the work is an experiment in space and connection. Designed for both solitude and spontaneous interaction, the dome serves as a third space that asks: What happens when two strangers meet inside? What kinds of conversations or connections might unfold? Can a shared moment within this intimate environment create a lasting bond?
Born from a desire to create a meditative, refuge-like space at Duke University, Ocean Room serves as a sanctuary from the outside world. Throughout its exhibition, it welcomed hundreds of visitors, from Duke students and faculty to guests from Durham and the wider Triangle area, each seeking a moment of stillness.
At its core, the work is an experiment in space and connection. Designed for both solitude and spontaneous interaction, the dome serves as a third space that asks: What happens when two strangers meet inside? What kinds of conversations or connections might unfold? Can a shared moment within this intimate environment create a lasting bond?
Inside Ocean Room, a notebook allowed visitors to leave a trace of their presence. Over the course of the exhibition, it became a 98-page archive of contemplation – filled with notes, drawings, and intimate reflections.
“This reminds me so much of home. In the moment I needed it most. The world seems still just for this moment. Just for this moment I am free." – TSS
“I'm sitting here with my two friends and they've both fallen asleep. I'm looking through the notebook and it's so peaceful. I'm thinking about how the ocean encompasses everything, and about how I'm so lucky to have these friends." – Anonymous
"This is such a thoughtful experience – we enjoyed it more than any installation we’ve been to in DC. I have never seen my son so calm!”
– Laura H.
"This room makes me feel GOOD!" – Connor, aged 4.5
Explore the full communal notebook ->
Situated at the entrance of the installation, a visitor book invited the community to reflect on the role of stillness in their daily lives. Many visitors expressed a profound need for permanent sanctuaries like Ocean Room within high-pressure environments like Duke University. These comments underscore the importance of refuge spaces that prioritize mental well-being and reflection.
A selection of visitor responses
"I would pay for such a calming, anxiety-soothing experience. The entire creation is beautiful and appreciated." – Anonymous
"Our two year old class enjoyed the color changes. They said it made them feel ‘good,’ ‘tired,’ and ‘calm.’" – TCS Adventurers
"These types of mini domes should be installed throughout campus. Perfect for meditating or taking a nap on a break away from everything. Really almost fell asleep, which is wonderful. Thank you!" – Anonymous
"Thanks for this work. Meditative spaces should be a more available part of our built world [...] to be integrated into our daily enjoyment and practice." – Anonymous
Explore the full visitor book ->