ICARUS was presented as an installation exploring light scattering, light refraction, motion and time. It raises awareness of the vulnerability of natural resources, pointing to the urge in time for action. It consists of an ice block left to melt where laser light is pointed, scattered and refracted, proposing a dialogue between light, time and the physical properties of the element water.
It is inspired by the photonic properties of diatoms and their potential vulnerability due to anthropogenic pressures. Diatoms are attracted to light, and their internal structures reflect light. ICARUS explores these relationships in an experimental approach using ice structures.
Diatoms are unicellular microalgae present in all aquatic environments on earth.
This project is developed in collaboration with the scientist Johannes Goessling. Johannes´ research resolves around the photonic properties of the glass shells of diatoms. Some of the structures are very complex and unique, with highly periodic pores.
ICARUS installation was presented at Tidepool Symposium by Biotop der Relevanz at Kraftwerk Zurich, Switzerland.
Supported by Cesam, Temporada Cruzada Portugal França 2022, United Nations Oceans Decade.
For more info check the ICARUS project website.
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- Technique / Materials: installation / MacBook Pro, Enttec DMXIS 70570 USB to DMX interface, laser projector Cameo LUKE Wookie 400 RGB, smoke machine, mirrors, rotating plate, ice.
- Software: DMXIS.
- Dimensions: variable
- Date: 2022
- Location: Symposium Tidepool, Biotop der Relevanz, Kraftwerk Zurich, Switzerland.
©Claudia Schildknecht & Ben Heer (Photography)
