Client: RAI Amsterdam

Overview

Kristalpaleis (Crystal Palace) is located at the entrance to the new building for the Amsterdam RAI exhibition and conference centre. Recognizable spatial objects appear in a cube consisting of thin aluminium tubes and white LEDs. A ceaseless stream passes by – a chair, a vase, a house, a ball – all showing off their seductive allure in a glittering display. Icons of our modern age float magically and weightlessly through space. They revolve on their axes, collide with one another, lose their shape, implode or disintegrate.

Goals

The goal of integrating an artwork in the site was to emphasize the allure of the place and to reinforce the “stimulating experience” each visit should be. The location for the artwork was decided upon early in the building process and thus could be integrated in the building plan.

Process

The artwork was commissioned by RAI Amsterdam. The building was designed by Mels Crouwel (Benthem Crouwels Architects), who collaborated closely on the installation of the work, which resulted in a very smooth completion. It was curated by Anneke Oele, produced by Yens & Yens (light technology) Bram Verhavert (animation) and Bart-Jan Hooft (visualisation). Photography: Gert Jan van Rooij. Video registration: Konstantin Leonenko