Prize(s) Winners in Light Art Project / Outdoor Light Art Installation
Lighting Design/Product Company Fjord Studio
Lead Designers Anastasia Isachsen
Other Designer's names Interactive conception – Transversal Studio / Music – Nils Petter Molvær / Production – Fjord Studio
Client Fjord Oslo Light Art Festival
Photo Credits Antero Hein & Hamie Robataille
Completion Date 01.11. 2024
Project Location Premiere - Oslo, also presented internationally
Entry DescriptionPOINT OF (NO) RETURN is an evocative interactive installation that immerses the audience in a visually striking experience—one that is shaped by their presence. As viewers step into the spotlight in front of the circular installation, luminous ice melts into flowing water. When they step back, the ice freezes again. The longer they engage with the mesmerizing visuals, the more the water’s flow spirals out of control, eventually turning into a dark storm - approaching the point of no return.
Through this direct and poetic interaction, the installation poses profound questions about our relationship with the environment: Is it too late to save our world? Are we at the point of no return, or is there still hope?
It invites deep reflection on how our self-destructive tendencies affect both our inner lives and the planet, prompting us to consider whether hope remains for achieving harmony with ourselves and our surroundings.
By employing a specially developed system that simulates natural algorithms, POINT OF (NO) RETURN merges art and science seamlessly. Real-time visuals respond to audience movements captured by advanced sensor cameras, while a sublime interactive soundscape amplifies the emotional impact.
Thus, while serving as a visual spectacle, POINT OF (NO) RETURN also becomes a powerful reflection on our choices and their impact on our future.
Sustainability ApproachThis temporary installation is designed to be as sustainable as possible, using locally sourced technical equipment.
1.Minimal Transport:
Most equipment—LED screens and sound—is sourced locally, cutting emissions. The core system travels in one medium rack box.
2.Equipment Reuse:
Standardized, locally available, and reusable components reduce waste and support long-term efficiency.
3.Low Energy Use:
Runs on standard grid power: one 63A 400V for LED screens, one 16A 230V for control, sound, and lighting.
4.Efficient Setup:
Fast to install (6 hrs) and dismantle (3 hrs), minimizing venue time and resource use.
5.Local Crew:
Delivered with local technicians, reducing travel, supporting local jobs, and simplifying logistics.
Company DescriptionAnastasia Isachsen is a visual artist and curator specializing in video and light art for cultural projects: installations, festivals, stage productions and exhibitions in Norway and internationally. Over the past decade, her work at light art festivals has been recognized for precise and poetic aesthetic, emotional and philosophical depth, and technical precision, offering audiences transformative and contemplative experiences.
As the founder and artistic director of Fjord Studio, she curates light art projects in Norway and worldwide, including Fjord Oslo, the light art festival in Oslo.
