Wet Light

Design
Inspired by the works of Isamu Noguchi, a lantern was placed over a modest fountain that is normally unnoticed. Inside, a complex network of mirrors, lenses and lights “map” the movement of the water onto the lantern screen. By denying the traditional view of the fountain and replacing it with a projection of the water movements, people paused to take notice. Between two other installations, the distinguished itself though its passive position. It was humble, spiritual.

Site
The site is at the gateway between the academic and residential portions of the University. Located right in front of the Lindy Boggs Building, the site is the porch to the Engineering School at the converging point of the University. Located in this spot is the small, modest fountain. As the only planned body of water on campus, it is an anomaly- it provides movement and sound as the counterpoint to the hustle of the student body. It is unassuming; easily missed. Only when there is an anomaly within the anomaly (with bubbles or the occasional fraternity wading about) is it truly noticed.

Response
The reaction was overwhelmingly positive. Often, we would find students with their heads underneath the screen, just watching. Some called it “the largest lava lamp ever” which seemed appropriate to a University. Some called it "sexy". Others just tried stealing the series of floating rubber ducks with mirrors on their heads. In all, people never took the modest fountain for granted again.

Information
Lux Madidus (Wet Light)
Tulane University Campus
Architecture Research Office, Guest Critics
with AWeek Team 3
Tony Vanky + Mihnea Dobre, Leaders