A colourful and playful interactive sound and light installation designed by The Urban Conga in collaboration with Serge Maheu and produced by Init of Quebec, is coming to Yonge-Dundas Square from March 3-April 2, 2023.
The project, entitled Optik, includes ten large gyroscope-like forms with dichroic film at the centre that each play a different music instrument while reflecting any ray of lights during the day, and refracting the inner rings lighting at dusk.
Optik is an interactive installation that reflects on our ability to play with our surroundings while giving the opportunity for brand new point of views on our daily environment. It provides a unique platform for users to manipulate how they want to see the world.
As attendees rotate each 6 foot high unit, they create their own endless cascade of colours. The experience is raised to another level as sound joins in the rhythmical effort, turning each unit into a different musical instrument including Acoustic Piano, Glockenspiel, Electric Piano, Rain, Guitar Harmonics,Kalimba, Acoustic Bass, Agogo, Timpani, and Dulcimer.
“Optik will mark the second consecutive year of hosting a winter project at Yonge-Dundas Square. Activating Yonge-Dundas Square during the colder months furthers our commitment to public art, with unique and interactive installations in a friendly and accessible place that contributes to people’s enjoyment of Yonge Street,” said Julian Sleath, General Manager of Yonge-Dundas Square.
Through movement and reflection of light, each of these colourful units encourages the public to engage with the people at other units within Yonge-Dundas Square, sparking spontaneous conversations, dance parties, jam sessions, and light shows.
On March 3, Yonge-Dundas Square will celebrate Optik with opening night activities from 5pm-11pm including free warm beverages and treats, plus visitors will have the opportunity to be broadcast to five digital screens in the Square as the installation acts as a photo booth for one night only.