The brief of simply “Art” was explored through a wide range of interpretations, including more traditional art forms alongside architecture, sculpture, and literature. This exploration helped define key attributes for the installation, with a strong focus on creating something highly interactive and visually distinctive.

Inspiration was drawn from the whimsical mechanical inventions of William Heath Robinson; his eccentric, machine-like constructions lend themselves to playful, kinetic installations. The piece also captures the essence of Olafur Eliasson’s 2003 work, ‘The Weather Project’. The sun, a powerful and recurring motif throughout art history, became a core influence, acting as a visual focal point for the design.

‘Solaris’ takes the form of a sun-shaped automaton powered by visitor interaction, encouraging active participation and creating the sense of stepping into a living artwork. Bright 2700K LEDs evoke a vibrant daytime sun, and as the handle is turned, the installation gradually transforms, the centre shifts into a warm red glow while the surrounding rays fade into cool blue tones. Mirrored mosaic materials enhance this transition by skewing and scattering the light, generating unique reflections that draw attention and spark curiosity.

Sustainability plays a significant role in the design, with the mechanism and structural components crafted entirely from recycled materials. Offering an environmentally conscious, dynamic, and engaging experience for [d]arc visitors.