Playmodes
Espills
Inspired by crystalline formations, a set of geometric figures float in the air and suggest a transmutation of matter from chaos to order. Dust becomes crystal, erodes and becomes sand again. A series of animated laser configurations rotate and change shape, evoking a musical instrument as well as immaterial architectural formations in thin air. Sound and light react to each other in an endless generative dance

Materials : Wood, water, lasers, speakers, robotic mirrors, custom software.

Playmodes

Playmodes is an audiovisual research studio. They work with custom, self-made technologies. Their mixture of creativity, software and hardware gives birth to immersive installations, projection mapping, lighting for buildings, digital scenography, audiovisual instruments and sound design.
They have an innovative approach, attention to detail and a craving for storytelling that makes them consider projects from all points of view, delivering intensely unique works that translate across cultures.
They love to experiment with new formats, working with Open Source tools and collaborating with people from around the world.

Curatorial Statement
Alex Czwtwertynski

New Media art pieces can only properly exist when they enter into a relationship with a space and an audience. Every venue and location gives the work a different layer of meaning and provides a different experience. After engaging with Banffy Castle in 2019, it is exciting to now dialogue with a variety of venues in Cluj, working with spaces that are both rich in history and ready for re-discovery.
The work presented this year is a mix of older pieces that haven’t been presented in over a year or more, and never seen in Romania, as well as works created during the 2020 pandemic. Finally we are also commissioning two new site specific works on iconic architectural landmarks of the city.
A big novelty for us is that we are engaging with more Romanian artists. As we build our audience, we hope to also foster a larger New Media scene in Romania and create a dynamic pole for this form of art.

The installation is part of the EC_Special 2021 programme.