Eco-Aesthetic Translation and Sustainable-Development Pathways in Installation Art within the Suzhou Water System: A Comparative Study of Chinese and International Cases

Abstract

This study, grounded in ecological aesthetics theory and taking the Suzhou water system as its research field, systematically explores the multidimensional pathways through which installation art advances urban ecologically sustainable development. By comparing Chinese and international cases, it is revealed that installation art achieves the localized translation of ecological aesthetics through deep integration of the natural textures and cultural-historical stratification of urban water systems: via the ecological application of local materials, polyphonic awakening of historical memories, refined construction of participatory rituals, and cross-media creation of immersive experiences, it translates these four abstract environmental protection concepts into perceptible aesthetic practices, thereby reshaping the emotional bonds between citizens and urban ecology. The proposed "Suzhou water system ecological aesthetics paradigm" with Chinese characteristics in this paper provides a theoretical basis and practical reference for ecological art creation and sustainable development within the global urban context.