If you haven’t heard of Vectorial Elevation, simply look towards the sky above the entrance to False Creek on English Bay and you’ll see a series of spotlights dancing throughout the sky (I can see them reflecting off the cloud ceiling from Steveston for some perspective).

Rafael Lozano-Hemmer "Vectorial Elevation"; Vancouver 2010

Vectorial Elevation – courtesy of Rafael Lozano-Hemmer

First appearing during the Millennium Celebrations in Mexico City, Vectorial Elevation will illuminate the sky for the duration of the Winter Olympics as part of the Vancouver 2010 Cultural Olympiad Digital Edition (AKA Canada CODE):

Vectorial Elevation includes a virtual model of Vancouver where you are able to design “light sculptures” with 20 robotic searchlights located along English Bay. Once you are happy with your design you submit it together with your name, location and dedication or comments. Every night from dusk to dawn new designs are quietly rendered sequentially as they are added to a queue. The project automatically creates a personal webpage for each participant, documenting his or her contribution with views from 4 project webcams. With a 15 Km visibility radius, the installation intends to blend the virtual space of the Internet with one of the most emblematic public spaces in Vancouver.

The display in Vancouver will be the largest yet, using 20 Xenon 10kW robotic searchlight, and also aims to be carbon neutral (power is supplied by BC Hydro through renewable energy sources and carbon offsets will also be used to ensure zero impact).

I have yet to take it for a spin with my own creation, but you all know I will. Where else will I ever have the opportunity to create one of the largest artistic structures ever?