Biolumen was inspired by Radiolaria, tiny single celled animals. Their name means ‘small sunbeam.’ Ocean floors are thick with their astonishingly beautiful skeletons, made from silica. Radiolaria live symbiotically with algae who feed them with sugars they make from sunlight. Some Radiolaria are bioluminescent because of the bacteria that live within them. The visual and sonic harmonies created by this installation are a tribute to symbiosis, and the ideal of humans living in balance with nature.

Radha created the patterns of each sculpture by referencing skeletal shapes and patterns of Radiolaria.  Sculptures change color when they are activated by visitors spinning them. Accompanying music is an original score by Jaclyn Blumas that emits from within the sculptures. This music was designed spatially--each sculpture has it's own voice and the sonic landscape changes as visitors move through the garden of sculptures.  

Concept and Design: Radha Chaddah 

Sound Design: Jaclyn Blumas 

Project Manager: RAW Design  

Co-production: Quartier des Spectacles Partnership, The city of Mississauga, Culture Shawinigan 

Distribution: Quartier des Spectacles International

Fabrication, Executive Production, Touring: Jack World