PlouNuvol: An Immersive Light Installation

Creating Storms Inside a Cloud with Dani Paez

PlouNuvol, meaning "It's raining cloud" in Catalan, is a fascinating exploration of the relationship between humans and nature. The installation is designed to mimic the experience of being inside a cloud during a storm. Participants, guided by an actor-conductor, create rain sounds using their bodies, triggering a series of stunning visual effects. This innovative design concept was inspired by the simple question: "What if we could be inside a cloud?"

The installation's unique properties lie in its immersive and interactive nature. The participants' movements and sounds directly influence the visual effects, making them co-creators of the storm. The installation is visible from both inside and outside the cloud, allowing spectators to enjoy the light show even if they are not directly participating.

The realization of PlouNuvol involved a blend of art, technology, and architecture. The cloud pavilion was created using an inflatable structure filled with artificial fog for added realism. The floor was covered with 10 tons of salt to reflect the colors of the walls, enhancing the feeling of being inside a cloud. The sounds generated by the participants' bodies were associated with different phases of rain, triggering corresponding light effects inside the cloud.

The project was unveiled in Barcelona during the Llum Barcelona Light Festival in February 2019. Over the course of three days, the installation attracted 15,000 visitors, with many more unable to enter due to time constraints. The success of PlouNuvol is a testament to the power of interactive art and its ability to engage audiences in unique and memorable ways.

PlouNuvol's design process involved extensive research and experimentation. The team worked with gospel choirs to explore different ways of creating rain-like sounds using the body. Overcoming the creative challenge of making a cloud "rain" through sound interaction was a significant achievement for the team. The result was an installation that not only entertained but also educated visitors about the musicality of rain.

In recognition of its innovative design and immersive experience, PlouNuvol was awarded the Silver A' Lighting Products and Fixtures Design Award in 2020. This prestigious accolade is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, creativity, and innovation. PlouNuvol's success is a testament to Dani Paez and his team's commitment to pushing the boundaries of interactive art and design.