Content

Ilot de chaleur by ATOMIC3

February 18 to March 5, 2016

îlot de chaleur_ATOMIC3. Photo: © Frédérique Ménard-Aubin

Island of warmth work by ATOMIC3

An electrifying campfire that comes to life

This installation is an interactive, musical, visual and luminous experience – an urban bonfire comprising 220 light bulbs that flicker in response to spectators’ movements. Whether they sway or dance, festivalgoers stir the virtual embers and trigger flames that dance, spark and swirl, creating warmth, light and music. A shared experience conceived as a tribute to Montreal’s inclusive festive tradition.

Creative intention

The idea is to create a downtown space where people can gather around a high-tech bonfire. The “fire” is made of 220 incandescent bulbs that generate heat. Around it there are rocking chairs for sitting and enjoying the fire. A bonfire is a primal ritual for all Quebecers. Even though ours is modern and interactive, people will naturally gravitate to it.

Félix Dagenais, co-founder of ATOMIC3 and designer of Island of warmth

Island of warmth by ATOMIC3 on Vimeo.

Bio and credits

ATOMIC3

ATOMIC3 is a creative design studiofounded by director Félix Dagenais and lighting designer Louis-Xavier Gagnon-Lebrunthat brings together artists from all backgroundsto create unique experiences that plunge visitors into the heart of the story.

Whether interactive or contemplative, ATOMIC3's creations transform the public space to connect with people in their daily lives, inviting viewers to see the world and their environment with new eyes.Outside the “black box” of the theatre, audience members become actors and stories become participatory works, where the physical world, light, music and new technologies come together.
ATOMIC3.CA

Credits

Original idea, light conception and stage set: Félix Dagenais and Louis-Xavier Gagnon-Lebrun
Sound conception: Jean-Sébastien Côté
Interactive modules conception: Benjamin De Leener
Technical direction: Simon Cloutier (ATOMIC3)
Light and interactivity Projet manager: Jean-François Piché

ABOUT THE QUARTIER DES SPECTACLES AND THE QUARTIER DES SPECTACLES PARTNERSHIP

The Quartier des Spectacles is Montreal’s cultural heart, boasting North America’s greatest concentration and variety of cultural venues. The district is the year-round host to countless festivals and events, many of which include free outdoor shows and activities. The Quartier hosts innovative urban installations featuring cutting-edge lighting design, immersive environments and interactive digital spaces. Year round, the Quartier presents artistic video projections on building façades. The Quartier des Spectacles is also a showcase for new multimedia technology, making Montreal a global leader in the urban exhibition of digital content.

The Quartier des Spectacles Partnership, founded in 2003, is a non-profit organization with more than 80 members active in the district. It is responsible for animating the Quartier des Spectacles by programming cultural activities, managing and animating public spaces, providing distinctive illumination and promoting the Quartier as a must-visit cultural destination. The Partnership is supported by the Ville de Montréal.

Press release

ÎLOT DE CHALEUR, AN URBAN CAMPFIRE PROVIDING WARMTH AND GOOD COMPANY

Blog

MAKING THE MOST OF MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE

MEDIA RELATIONS

Mélanie Mingotaud | melanie@mingo2.ca | (514) 582-5272