Inspired by its location at the Churer Tor, an epicentre of salt trade in Western Austria, “Crystalline” features an almost three metres tall, illuminated “salt crystal”, accompanied by a curation of smaller crystal-like sculptures, all of which are crafted from recycled medical plastic waste using advanced 3D printing technology. These luminous objects are not only visually striking, but also incorporate bespoke light and sound collages that interact with the surrounding architecture, creating a dynamic immersive experience in dialogue with the public realm.
The installation offers a unique blend of sustainable materials, innovative technology, and artistic expression that harmonises with its historic context. The event is set to be a captivating experience, combining various artistic disciplines with a focus on environmental sustainability, resulting in a fascinating composition of material, surface and light with impressive radiance.
The Danish manufacturer MDT A/S Flexible Products produced the 3D printed objects through an extraordinary printing process that lasted over 68 continuous hours. Standing nearly three metres tall, this monumental creation represents the largest monolithic object achievable with this advanced printing technology.
Crafted from rPETG—a recycled polyethylene terephthalate modified with glycol—the material tells a story of sustainability. Its translucent filament, derived from discarded medical containers, finds new purpose solely in 3D printing. Much like natural crystal formation, the delicate interplay of temperature and humidity shapes the filament’s behavior, influencing both the material’s translucency and the intricate textures that emerge. From the geometric crystal-like forms to the finest details, crystalline structures reveal themselves, their luminous qualities heightened by careful illumination from within.
Crystalline is a mesmerizing exploration of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and multi-sensory light art. The interplay of translucent material and sculptural form transforms light into an ever-changing dynamic body, both by day and night. Enhancing this visual marvel is a specially composed poetic soundscape, immersing visitors in a multi-sensory experience perfectly harmonized with the historic charm of Feldkirch’s medieval old town.
