The proposal is for a moving array of light-reflecting, partially translucent hanging tiles that are able to divert light into desired areas of the concourse by being manipulated by guide wires (as seen in image below). The array provides a striking focal point to the concourse and the tiles are free to move by applying tension to the guide wires. This allows participants to  interact with the array and reflect light in differing ways, either for aesthetic merit or to improve visibility in certain areas of the atrium. Since there are many windows and much of the concourse takes in sunlight from the West and overhead, the array can reduce the amount of artificial lighting required in desired areas. This could also be used in concert with an adaptive lighting system, using photocells to detect which areas require artificial light at any given time.

The material used would be semi-transparent to allow some light to pass through the array; this would prevent the array from blocking the passage of light and would eliminate the harsh glare of a purely reflective surface, while providing enough reflectivity to achieve the objective of the installation.

Amount awarded: $900

Project started: February 2012

Note: This project is one of five sustainability art prototype projects. Each group will submit a prototype for consideration by the New SUB Sustainability Working Group and New SUB Project Committee, and a group will be commissioned to create a scaled-up project for the New SUB Atrium .

Project Updates

• New SUB Sustainability Art: Clouds and Light | August Update
• New SUB Sustainability Art: Clouds and Light | July Update
• New SUB Sustainability Art: Clouds and Light | June Update
• New SUB Sustainability Art: Clouds