The RGBolz Ecosystem

Mason Talbott

Wichita, Kansas

Soundscape: Phil Redman

The RGBolz Ecosystem uses the Conservatory as a living canvas, casting floodlight color washes to mix and mingle among the dense tropical foliage. These vibrant lights and their many-colored shadows invite you to look deeply into the natural world full of its own reflections, and yours, as you become a temporary and integral part of the dynamic environment. Hidden within this landscape are 15 caterpillars taking their first hopeful steps toward transformation. Transform alongside them on your own journey through RGBolz.

Pro Tip

Take your time to enjoy the subtle shifts in light patterns as you move through the conservatory in search of colorful caterpillars.

Inside the Installation

Materials: RGB flood lights, cardboard tubes, ripstop nylon, paint, speakers

  1. Using the three lights at slightly different angles creates the effect called a "chromatic aberration."
     

  2. Plants use the wavelengths or colors of lights received for different purposes; green may show them they are trapped under a canopy and blue may tell them to reach towards the sky while red is their primary driver in photosynthesis. I like the idea that this is a mini-dance party of competing information for them. 
     

  3. Caterpillars have taste bud-like receptors on their feet to know whether the plant they are on is food for them; which caterpillar here is having the tastiest walk? 

Artist Bio

Mason Talbott

Mason Talbott is a collaborative light artist based in Wichita, KS. Talbott paints environments with RGB floodlights using the objects and people within them to create site-specific installations where the dynamic shadows become a central actor. While his personal practice is more nature-based, Talbott regularly collaborates with musicians, dancers, gardeners, painters, and other creatives to accentuate their processes and bring out new dimensions in their own work.

< Previous Installation Next Installation >
Back to Map