Project 2023.1: Welcome Beacon

PROJECT DESIGNERS: MAYOWA TOMORI AND MICHAEL RUNGE 

Welcome Beacon is a twelve feet tall structure covered in colorful translucent modular tiles and internally divided into eight zones using proximity sensors. The piece reacts differently to the sun than when it is night time, giving those interacting with it different experiences. During the day, for instance, sunshine will stream through the tiles creating a prismatic stained glass effect which will change with the sun.

After dark, the structure comes alive to reveal a dazzling interactive LED light show that will respond to the interactor's movement within Welcome Beacon. To encourage collaborative play, the light show plays a special easter egg “Welcome Beacon” animation when all zones are activated simultaneously.

The project draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including the structure of Ellis Island, Gothic Cathedrals, the Voyager Golden Record, and the film The Fifth Element.