Óra [2025]

Óra is a kinetic sound and light installation that explores the concept of ‘loaded time’ a temporal state characterized by a slow accumulation of energy that ultimately erupts when a threshold is reached. This buildup-and-release dynamic is commonly observed in natural phenomena such as geysers, where underground pressure builds until water is forcefully expelled into the air. In Óra, this idea is reinterpreted through a sculptural system in which compressed air is used to trigger a wind turbine. As the turbine spins, it generates power that activates a circular array of lights surrounding its blades.

Drawing inspiration from systems theory, Óra incorporates concepts like neural networks and autopoiesis, the capacity of a system to self-regulate and sustain itself through internal feedback. These principles are woven into the installation’s behavior. Its elements air, motion, sound, and light, are in constant interaction, forming a responsive and evolving ecosystem that mimics an artificial living, time- sensitive organism.

The installation consists of multiple identical units that are placed together in a group. The process unfolds in different phases: initially, all units enter a charging state, silently accumulating pressure. In this state a visitor can hear the compressors charging and see litle lights that indicate the charging proces. Once a unit is “charged,” it becomes acoustically receptive. If it detects the characteristic wind sound of a neighboring turbine in motion, it too is activated, unleashing its stored energy and setting its own turbine in motion. This cascading chain reaction produces a synchronized yet organically evolving composition of light and sound.

After all units have discharged, the system resets. The cycle of tension and release begins anew, turning Óra into a meditative and cyclical ritual. A choreography of machines in motion which unfolds over time.

Óra is commissioned by Schemerlicht Festival in Nijmegen and KIKK festival in Namur, and produced in collaboration with Spectro Productions.

Curated by Siuli Ko
Pictures by Rolf van Hensel & Stef van Oosterhout for Schemerlicht festival