Client: Center for Strategic and International Studies

Location: Washington, DC, United States

Completion date: 2012

Project Team

Artist

Eric Gunther

Sosolimited

Industry Resource

Bill Washabaugh

Hypersonic

Architect

Thomas Corrado

Hickok Cole Architects

Overview

The Center for Strategic and International Studies was building a new home for themselves in Washington, DC. They were looking for a multimedia installation in the lobby of the new building that engaged visitors with the story of their work and mission.

We designed the Global Data Chandelier, a hanging volume of glowing pendants that coalesces into a map of the world when viewed from below. The map reveals visualizations of World Bank Data including GDP growth rate, renewable water resources, and energy consumption, each expressed through a unique lighting animation.

Goals

The goal for integrating the artwork was to engage visitors with the story and work of CSIS. They wanted a multimedia piece that felt contemporary and expressed the modern mission of the think tank.

The chandelier provides an elegant and intriguing centerpiece that ties the multi level lobby together. The sculpture conveys the mission of CSIS through the vital data that informs their work. It is an arresting object that reveals deeper layers of data and narrative through conversations with staff members.

Process

The building design by Hickok Cole Architects was completed and construction had begun when we began designing the artwork. We worked closely with John Hamre, the President of CSIS, and his team to develop a narrative and body of data that best represented their work. We brought on Hypersonic and Plebian Design to help fabricate the chandelier. Through a collaborative process, we chose material qualities and dynamic LED lighting that complemented the contemporary feel of the lobby.

Additional Information

Each data set shown on the chandelier is paired with a unique lighting animation. In addition, CSIS can highlight regions of the map that correspond with international developments or visiting dignitaries.