matter to matter installation by arthur analts highlights the power of nature at london design biennale

london-based artist and designer arthur analts’ interactive installation represents latvia’s relationship to its natural environment. ‘matter to matter’ was inspired by the designer’s native city of riga — due to its proximity to the baltic sea, it has its own unique climate, with a constant humidity that often leads to condensation. with this work, analts recreates the transition from gas to liquid using a large green glass surface. 

matter to matter invites visitors to leave their own message or doodle while, after a couple of minutes, the temporal marks naturally disappear. through this process, analts asks us to consider the power of nature and highlights the role of designers and architects as the creators of a responsible, sustainable future where nature and its inhabitants coexist. it is a statement about culture and transience, of secret messages, and the ways in which nature can cover over human traces.

‘the installation reflects on the interaction between humans, nature, and technology and how we can coexist and develop,’ explains analts. ‘the aim of this installation is to bring people together and generate positive, real emotions. once these are created, more serious topics can and should be addressed, such as the state of our natural environments and global warming.’

the apparent simplicity of the design conceals a sophisticated technological solution behind the main feature. it does not shout at you but quietly encourages you to take part. matter to matter is exhibited during london design biennale as part of latvia’s centenary celebrations. 

visitors leaving their messages on the wall of condensation

kids interacting with the work

visitors expressing their emotions

tactile and interactive installation

arthur analts

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: maria erman | designboom