CINCINNATI —
Artists from around the world are in Cincinnati for BLINK, one of the year’s biggest events, which begins Thursday night and runs through Sunday, showcasing light displays, murals, and interactive installations.
Preparations are underway with powerful computers, lasers, and gadgets creating what could be described as “photon fresco.”
Some of the light displays cost tens of thousands of dollars, but the most important element of BLINK is free: the nighttime.
“You’re going to see a light pattern respond to you as you’re moving underneath the canopy,” one artist said, describing the interactive nature of the installations.
Gemma Mills, an artist from the United Kingdom, said being part of BLINK is a major opportunity.
“This is probably the biggest deal. It’s really exciting to be here,” Mills said.
Her installation in Covington features a canopy of “light-cicles” made from four miles of LEDs. The lights react to people walking underneath, creating patterns and music.
“A lot of people thought it was a stage as we were setting it up, and in a lot of ways it is a stage. It’s just a way for people to come up and be part of the performance,” Mills said.
Zera, an artist from Greece, is painting one of several new murals for BLINK, creating what he calls “an open museum.”
On Fountain Square, preparations are underway for an elaborate laser display.
Dan Mecher, a multimedia designer for Fifth Third Bank, is leading an installation on Fountain Square.
For the first time the Tyler Davidson fountain will be laser-mapped.
“This year’s installation is called Canvas. We’re kind of celebrating how Cincinnati has really served as a living canvas for the arts,” Mecher said.
As the opening night approaches, light artists are finalizing their displays, which combine art and science.
The event runs through Sunday, but with potential weather concerns on the final day, anticipate larger crowds on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.