DETROIT (WWJ) -- Just in time for the Movement Electronic Music Festival, a new immersive art installation is opening in Downtown Detroit.
SKALAR: Reflections on Light and Sound is presented in collaboration with Bedrock’s Decked Out Detroit and Library Street Collective at 1001 Woodward Ave.
The collective brainchild of light artist Christopher Bauder and musician Kangding Ray -- both of Berlin, Germany -- this stunning 30-minute sensory experience “delves into the intricate interplay of light and sound on human perception.”
SKALAR features an emotionally-driven, audio-visual narrative that utilizes radiant light vector drawings by Bauder, choreographed to beautiful and moving electronic music composed by Ray.
Viewers are encouraged to take in the experience by laying on beanbag chairs in the pitch-dark space while exploring a wide variety of sensations, which are based on Robert Plutchik’s psychoevolutionary theory of eight primary emotions: anger, fear, sadness, disgust, surprise, anticipation, trust, and joy.
“The combination of moving mirrors, a changing color palette, and the profound sound of SKALAR triggers sensory and psychological reactions, offering a truly innovative way to experience and feel art,” an excerpt from the website reads.
Despite the theme of eight primary emotions, Bauder and Ray say there’s no right or wrong way to experience the exhibit, and it’s really up the interpretation of the viewer.
“We’re not trying to direct and tell you what it is,” Ray told WWJ’s Jon Hewett. “It’s about whatever you will feel with what we present, that’s the most important thing. So if you felt wonderful, that’s wonderful. That’s the truth.”
“We are giving you food for your own thoughts,” Bauder added.
With this Downtown Detroit pop-up, the exhibition makes its U.S. debut, having traveled to cities such Mexico City, Berlin and Amsterdam over the past several years.
SKALAR: Reflections on Light and Sound is free to the public, and will open at 1001 Woodward Ave. beginning this Friday, May 24 through Sunday, July 28. Reserve your spot here.