Rise: An Art Installation Celebrating Youth, Creativity, and Freedom

A Captivating Display of Paper Planes

Rise, a stunning art installation designed by Maria Pedras & Frederico Roeber, takes inspiration from the Japanese culture's symbol of youth, creativity, and freedom - paper planes. This unique installation was showcased at the Arrivals Terminal of Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, serving as the Welcome hub to the Get Set Festival, an annual event celebrating art and creativity in Oporto.

Built with 529 meticulously crafted paper planes, Rise represents the limitless possibilities that arise when design, architecture, innovation, and freedom of creation converge. The installation features a wave-like formation of suspended planes, creating a captivating visual spectacle that invites viewers to explore and experience the installation from different perspectives. The interplay of light, shadows, and the gentle movements caused by wind further enhance the textures and dimensions of the installation.

The design process for Rise involved a meticulous 3D modeling process to determine the placement, heights, and quantity of the paper planes. A wooden frame structure supports 23 wooden bars, each adorned with 23 suspended paper planes. The handmade paper planes, crafted from 80g white A4 paper, were carefully suspended using fishing lines, creating a dynamic and ever-changing display.

Measuring 2.50m x 2.50m, Rise stands at a maximum height of 1.50m and a minimum height of 0.50m. The installation weighs approximately 10kg and is composed of 529 paper planes, 529 fishing lines, and 23 wooden bars measuring 0.12m x 2.50m x 0.12m.

After its display at the Arrivals Terminal, Rise was later exhibited at the Kubik Art Gallery in Oporto, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing presence. The installation served as a testament to the power of design and its ability to evoke emotions and create connections.

Rise not only overcame creative and technical challenges but also successfully established an emotional connection with viewers through the use of a childhood toy - the paper plane. Its eye-catching design and organic form within a limited space drew attention and sparked curiosity among passersby.

The success of Rise was recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2015. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that are well-crafted, practical, and innovative, meeting professional and industrial requirements while contributing to a better world.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Maria Pedras
Image Credits: Creators: Maria Pedras and Frederico Roeber / All images: Maria Pedras / Year: 2014 and 2015 / Video: Maria Pedras / Help to buil installation at the airport: Sebastião Rosas / people on video: Frederico Roeber and Sebastião Rosas
Project Team Members: Designer: Maria Pedras Architect: Frederico Roeber
Project Name: Rise
Project Client: Maria Pedras


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