ICARUS installation explores light scattering, light refraction, motion and time and was presented here for the first time as an upscaled diatom sculpture. It raises awareness of the vulnerability of natural resources, pointing to the urge in time for action. It consists of a diatom sculpture 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 was produced by SONORA and co-produced by Ghost Productions and presented at Casa das Armas, Largo Residências, Lisbon, Portugal.
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 / PA system, MacBook Pro, Enttec DMXIS 70570 USB to DMX interface, laser projector Cameo LUKE 700 RGB, smoke machine, acrylics, rotating plate, ice.
- Software: Ableton Live, DMXIS.
- Dimensions: variable
- Date: 2022
- Location: Casa das Armas, Largo Residências, Lisbon, Portugal.
©Vera Marmelo (Photography)
