jaime hayon creates a fantastical, rideable, crystallized carousel for swarovski in austria

swarovski and jaime hayon have joined forces to create an interactive installation adorned with 15 million swarovski crystals. ‘carousel’ — open to visitors in the gardens of swarovski kristallwelten (crystal worlds) in wattens, austria — reimagines the traditional characteristics of the carousel while retaining its enduring, nostalgic appeal. ‘the carousel provokes feelings of freedom and joy – it is an art piece in movement and a place where imagination starts,’ hayon says. ‘I’m excited for people to be transported into this fairy tale.’

spanning more than 6 meters high, the black-and-white ‘carousel’ shimmers with 15 million swarovski crystals across 12 ceiling panels and 16 wall panels, and is illuminated with warm lighting to create a ethereal atmosphere. hayon drew inspiration from folklore and fairy tales to create the fantastical characters that act as the seats. furthermore, on the roof and surrounding fence, a series of whimsical faces glisten in the sun and express the joy and delight that riding a carousel brings. ‘carousel’ can accommodate 28 passengers of all ages, and also includes spaces designated for wheelchairs.

the installation joins other pieces at swarovski kristallwelten, including works by famed creators including cao perrot, fredrikson stallard, erwin wurm, bruno gironcoli, thomas bayrle, martin gostner, kwangho lee and alois schild. carousel is open daily in july and august from 10am to 9:30pm, and from 10am to 7pm from september to june.

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project info: 

designer: jaime hayon

presented by: swarovski

location: swarovski kristallwelten (swarovski crystal worlds), wattens, austria

opening times: open daily in july and august from 10am to 9:30pm, and from 10am to 7pm in september to june