DIE WELLE – GAS OMET E R OBERH AU S E N EME A
OBERHAUSEN / GERMANY
H ous ed i n s i d e a d e c o m m issione d ga s ta n k w h i c h n o w s e r v es a s a n e x hibition s p a c e , a m a s s i v e proje c tion s tr uctur e i s t h e h i g h l i g h t o f a re c e nt a ttr a ction h i g h l i g h t i n g t h e be auty of the oceanic world. P hotos : Mi c h a el Lü b k e u nles s s ta t e d
A 40m-tall projection surface fixed to a custom-built truss frame has been erected as the highlight of Planet Ozean, a new exhibition focusing on the beauty of the world’s oceans at Gasometer Oberhausen in the heart of the Ruhr region of western Germany. Conceived and implemented by Ars Electronica Solutions, Die Welle (The Wave) allows visitors to experience a photorealistic ocean world featuring gigantic crashing waves, life-sized whales and jellyfish, and huge schools of fish. Visitors are not just spectators; they can immerse themselves in the ocean. This is achieved not only by allowing them to wander under the gauze but also thanks to an audience tracking system, where animations directly respond to their movements. The projection surface was supplied by AV Stumpfl, from its Flex Contrast Pro range, while SIGMA System Audio-Visuell GmbH was responsible for integrating the AV equipment, overseeing projector positions and housings, cabling, sound, and installation according to Ars Electronica Solutions’ specifications. geo – Die Luftwerker Robert Meyknecht e.K. planned and constructed the structure, handling the trussing, static calculations, and installation and positioning of both screen surfaces, again according to Ars Electronica Solutions’ spec. “When we were asked for a new structural idea for the inside of the hall we brainstormed a few ideas, working with the curator Nils Sparwasser. The challenge was to surpass the uniqueness of the major installation from the previous exhibition in both conception and execution. This involved months of planning and deliberation to develop a structure that would meet the requirements of the gasometer, and satisfy the expectations of visitors.” said Patrick Müller, Head of Technical Operations Ars Electronica Solutions. “The concept of Die Welle was born in a relaxed discussion, and we conceived an L-shaped structure, which is slightly tilted, to offer different projection surfaces for visitors to look at from different viewing points.” The final result features two structures which work together – an upright projection screen, slightly angled towards the audience’s
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