Ned Kahn

Ned Kahn makes the invisible visible. Drawing from meteorology, physics, and fluid dynamics, his works capture the subtle movements of wind, water, and light—creating ever-changing, immersive experiences. With ‘The Breathing Tree’, Kahn brings this vision to life, offering a moment of stillness and wonder in the heart of Central Hong Kong.

Delivered in collaboration with curator Alison Pickett, and positioned adjacent Zaha Hadid Architects’ The Henderson building, the sculpture rises 6.8 meters above a reflective pool. Its 140 kinetic branches, or wind vanes, are made from aluminium that flex and rotate with the wind, casting shifting shadows. The artwork features three additional mesmerizing effects: the Cloud Vortex, Water Vortex, Rain Veil. The Cloud Vortex creates a swirling column of mist, while the Water Vortex forms a hypnotic whirlpool in the base, and the Rain Veil creates a dramatic and abundant water curtain. Powered by an underground plant room, these effects unfold in a rhythmic sequence every hour—from gentle mist to cascading rain and swirling water—transforming the space with each cycle.

From extensive testing and mockups to fabricating the kinetic branches and engineering the underground systems, our studio, the client, and the artist carefully refined every detail. The result is a seamless fusion of art and mechanics—a living, breathing sculpture that responds to the rhythms of nature.