Pulse Spiral

"Pulse Spiral" is a three-dimensional spiral paraboloid made up of 400 lightbulbs arranged according to Fermat's equations, ー an efficient spatial distribution along a surface which is found in plant phyllotaxis (arrangement of leaves and cells in roots for example). The piece records and responds to the heart rate of participants who hold a sensor underneath. Commissioned for the opening of the Center for Contemporary Culture in Moscow in the constructivist Bakhmetevsky Bus Garage, the piece is inspired by engineer Vladimir Shukov who worked with Melnikov on this emblematic building from 1926-28.

General info

Spanish name:
Espiral de Corazonadas
Year of creation:
2008

300 bulbs versions

Technique:
Heart rate sensor, computer, DMX controller, custom software, dimmer rack, 300 incandescent lightbulbs, generator
Dimensions:
7 m tall and 4 m diameter
Edition:
3 Editions, 1 AP
Collectors:
private collector

400 bulbs version

Technique:
Heart rate sensor, computer, DMX controller, custom software, dimmer rack, 400 lightbulbs, generator
Dimensions:
7 m tall and 4 m diameter
Edition:
1 Edition, 1 AP
Collectors:
Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal and private collector

Exhibitions


Credits

  • Programming: Conroy Badger
  • Production Assistance: Pierre Fournier, David Lemieux, Natalie Bouchard, Boris Dempsey, Stephan Schulz
  • Executive Production: Dasha Zhukova, Haunch of Venison
  • CCC production: Marina Barber and Lena Evstafieva
  • Staging: Stage Performance Group
  • Commissioned by: Center for Contemporary Culture, Moscow

Bibliography