RAW transforms downtown montreal into prismatic kaleidoscope

from now until february 1, 2014 montrealers and visitors to the downtown district are invited to experience ‘prismatica’, a public art installation by toronto-based architectural firm RAW. comprising 50 pivoting prisms, each spanning more than two meters in the air, the immersive installation reflects every color in the visible spectrum, varying with the position of the light source and viewer. ‘we wanted to contribute an installation that was immersive, yet inviting. we wanted people to play around, have fun and, in doing so, forget about the cold.’ describes RAW director, roland rom colthoff.

the rotating prisms are made of panels laminated with a dichronic film, mounted on bases containing projectors. as visitors wander among and manipulate them, they enjoy an infinite interplay of light and reflection, while simultaneously a soundtrack comprised of bells resounds.‘prismatica’ is part of quartier des spectacles‘ luminothérapie, and is one of two installations selected by the juries of the fifth annual competition.

each rotating prism spans more than two meters in the air
all images by james brittain / courtesy of RAW

the prisms are made of panels laminated with a dichronic film, mounted on bases containing projectors

visitors enjoy an infinite interplay of light and reflection

a simultaneous soundtrack comprised of bells resounds throughout the installation

the immersive installation reflects every color in the visible spectrum

visitors to the downtown district are invited to experience ‘prismatica’