We assume that air is invisible—until our bodies begin to feel discomfort. That was when I started to re-examine the air around us.

Focusing on the theme of air pollution, I conducted an in-depth study centered on Glasgow. I took to the streets, using my eyes and hands to feel the weight of the city’s air. I visited six of the most heavily polluted industrial sites in Glasgow: Byres Road, Buchanan Subway Station, the factories along the River Clyde, Glasgow Airport, Nithsdale Road, and the city centre.

To help people understand these sources of pollution more intuitively, I created six physical models: an airplane, train, car, railway track, smokestack, and construction equipment—each representing a different type of pollution.

I also designed a “Lung Map” of Glasgow, using the River Clyde as a dividing line: the north side becomes the right lung, and the south side the left. Through projection and animation, I made the map rise and fall as if it were breathing—establishing a direct connection between the city and the human body.

Pollution sites were marked on the “lungs,” with colored particles simulating the spread of pollutants. I placed the printed models at their corresponding locations; originally white, they became “stained” to reflect the pollution they represent.

Though air pollution may seem less severe today, in reality, it still lurks in every corner of our lives—affecting every breath we take.