Trippy, techno sound and light installation makes US debut in Michigan

DETROIT – A mind-blowing new art installation has arrived in the United States for the first time and Michiganders are the first to experience it.

“SKALAR: Reflections on Light and Sound” is a kinetic art installation that came to Michigan by way of Germany. So far, the installation has only been seen in Berlin, Zurich, Mexico City, Amsterdam and Riyadh.

It is a collaboration between light artist Christopher Bauder and musician Kangding Ray. They say they wanted to open “Skalar” at the same time as Detroit’s famous techno music festival, “Movement,” which took place last weekend. The two say they are big fans of the Detroit techno music scene and Ray has also performed at the festival.

“Detroit is the home of techno and we’re Berlin techno guys, so it makes sense to bring this facility back to the roots,” Bauder told MLive. “In Berlin, the electronic music culture is very strong,” Ray added. “The bond between Berlin and Detroit has always been very strong.”

“Skalar” It will be open to the public until July 28, 2024 at 1001 Woodward Avenue. Admission is free by appointment. Walk-ins are welcome depending on availability. Installation takes approximately half an hour.

“The plot revolves around eight basic emotions, such as fear, anger, happiness, etc., and we follow this path of emotions with a combination of sound, light and music,” added Bauder. ‘It’s free, so we hope a lot of people come to see it. “It’s for everyone,” Ray added. “For us it is important that it works for the general public, for families, for children… for any age.”