Grote Kerk
Role: Creative direction (in collaboration with Yannick Jacquet, Olivier Ratsi & Joanie Lemercier), motion design.
Production: Graphic Design Festival Breda
Coordination & project management: ANTIVJ
Breda, The Netherlands, January 2009.
In our fast-paced digital era, the concept of contemplation often feels elusive, leaving us to wonder if traditional spaces, such as cathedrals, still hold the capacity to foster such introspective moments. It is within this context that Grote Kerk, a captivating hybrid projection mapping piece, takes root, exploring the intersection of graphic design and the rich baroque heritage of the Breda Cathedral.
Grote Kerk is a compelling manifestation of artistic expression, drawing inspiration from the cathedral's tumultuous history. In this immersive experience, the grandeur of the cathedral becomes a canvas for visual storytelling, where the harmonious blend of light and projection mapping techniques breathes new life into the sacred space.
The centerpiece of this unique artistic endeavor is the organ, which serves a dual role as both a projection surface and a living instrument. As the performance unfolds, the organ becomes an integral part of the audiovisual composition, played live by Gerard Maters, creating a mesmerizing synergy between music and visuals.
The juxtaposition of graphic design with the opulent baroque elements of the cathedral creates a captivating dialogue between past and present, tradition and innovation. The vibrant visuals, meticulously crafted, interweave with the architectural splendor, inviting viewers to contemplate the profound beauty of the space in a modern context.
Grote Kerk offers a powerful in-situ audiovisual experience, transforming the cathedral into a dynamic environment that resonates with the audience on multiple levels. Through a thoughtful collaboration with Giacinto Caponio, whose expertise in light design enhances the immersive quality of the piece, the atmospheric ambiance of the cathedral is carefully curated to evoke a sense of wonder and introspection.
This innovative collaboration of artistic disciplines invites viewers to engage with the cathedral in a new and profound way. Grote Kerk serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to provoke contemplation, even in the digital age. It reaffirms the significance of traditional spaces and their ability to transcend time, fostering moments of reflection and connection.
