Tokyo-based Torafu architects designed the Christmas illumination installed in Sony Square, the Sony Building’s outdoor event space in Ginza, Japan. Inspired by the Trevi fountain in Rome, the “Ai no Izumi” (Fountain of Love) charity drive has been held by Sony every year since 1968. For this edition, Torafu architects proposed a new embodiment as an interactive installation.
The Crystal Aqua Trees is a crystal work of art inspired by the concept of a fountain that can be seen as a spray of water as well as a Christmas tree. In response to changes in the landscape of the street and the actions of people, the illumination will play beautiful music in harmony with a gorgeous light display. The movement of people is picked up by a sensor camera, which prompts the pillars of light illuminated by LEDs to change colors to create a glimmering structure. Whenever coins are deposited in the crystal donation box placed in front of the square, the installation responds by switching to a special performance, as if acknowledging the contributions made.
Like water in a fountain, the polished black floor surface of the stage reflects the illumination, creating a wonderful scene in the middle of the streets of Ginza.
Principle use: EXHIBITION SITE
Production: NOMURAKOUGEISHA
Credit: Planning・Production: Sony PCL Inc. / Image・Interactive production・Sound: WOW / Technical Direction: LUFTZUG
Building site: Ginza Tokyo Sonybuilding 1F 「SonySquare」
Total floor area: 40.6m2
Design period: 2012.09 – 11
Construction period: 2012.11.29 – 12.02
Duration: 2012.12.03 – 2013.01.14
Photo: Daici Ano
