Contour1 is an exploration of the complexities of reflective light on all scales. Using almost 600 mylar balloons as mini reflectors, each balloon will rotate, rise and fall independently from each other yet as a community in a unified mass of similar forms. Deliberate uplighting and contributing light from the surrounding buildings will amplify the movement of the individual contours. Each sculpture on the grounds will be enveloped by the balloon mass, and accentuated with various lighting techniques to emphasis structure, and shadow. The existing lighting along the pathway contours will be outfitted with strands of reflectors, vulnerable to even the most subtle breeze, to cast streaks of light at a guest’s feet. By leaving much of the patterns of light throughout, to be described by nature and chance, each observer will experience the installation in a unique way.
The cylindrical tower of the Kresge building will be rendered by striations of light that mimic the patterns of light throughout the installation, but on a much larger scale. This element, seen from a significant distance, serves as an invitation to discover all the nuances of the rest of the installation up close.
