The Rain Room is an experiential artwork by Hannes Koch and Florian Ortkrass. The immersive light and sound installation gives visitors the magic experience of controlling nature by becoming a participant in this technical genius. The first permanent installation was in Sharjah, U.A.E, but the popularity lead to it being reproduced in the MoMa in New York, and in the Barbican in London. The motion-sensors present in this darkened, underground location operates in a manner that prevents the rain from falling above any detected human presence. In Sharjah, a system of 3D tracking cameras ensures that the 2500 liters of water falling from the ceiling creates a six-foot radius around any person who is walking there.
I found this installation particularly interesting because it hints at the growing dependence of humans and nature on technology. This is just an installation, but with the rapid advancement of technology, one day we may actually have the power to exercise control over one of nature’s most important and flowing creations.
Here is a short video that takes viewers through this mesmerizing creation:
