RUTA PALIONYTE
designer - light artist
Reflexio
About the project
Reflexio is an imaginary space which challenges the perceptual bases of spatial representation.
Each time installation is adapted for the new location, it changes the shape, as well as lighting design schemes, corresponding to the context and spatial qualities of the particular place. Large scale mirroring floor and specifically for the location preprogrammed dynamic light performance are the tools, that allow to extend the physical space and play with viewer’s perception. Visitors can observe visual transformations from the distance, as well as walk through the mirrored 'upside down' imaginarium.
Reflexio -
at Estonian Museum of Architecture
Installation Reflexio is installed as a part of permanent exhibition 'Explore Space!' at Estonian Museum of Architecture. It deals with various facets of creating architecture, from the concept to the creation of the actual spatial experience. 'Explore Space!' is an environment providing sensations for various senses and inviting people to experience architecture with their whole body.
Reflexio is located in the arched cellar of the XIX century Rotermann Salt Storage. The brick vaults of the storage are covered with a permanent crust of salt, which makes the vaults rich in textures–a beautiful feature to reveal by light.
The play of light on the architectural features, materials and textures reflect upon the large mirroring floor. The pre-programmed lighting performance constantly changes the character: one moment it enhances the architectural composition, the other - deconstructs the symmetry of the vaulted arched space. Specifically designed lighting sequences play upon the viewers perception of space, as it reveals and dissolves the architectural elements into the darkness.
Explore space!, which was completed in 2019, received the Annual Award of Estonian Museum for the Permanent Exhibition.
Video documentation, sound by Piibbe Kolka.
Photo credits- Liisi Anvelt, extracts from Piibbe Kolka video.
Architectural and Lighting Design:
Ruta Palionyte and Grete Veskiväli.
Lighting automation - Vallo Rähn (lluminationteam).
Photos of salt crystals on bricks - Ruta Palionyte.
