Infos
2025
The music of fireflies consists of light. Some species form groups to create an impressive, synchronized wave of light. The individual fireflies adapt to the frequency of their neighbors until they finally all blink in unison. Inspired by a scientific experiment, artist and composer Robin Meier Wiratunga traveled to Thailand to work with the species Pteroptyx malaccae, which is known to synchronize itself. He installed computerized LEDs with which the animals coordinated their flashing. Interacting in concord without central control in this rhythmic light composition, the computer and the insects constitute a silent orchestra having no conductor. Light is one of the main factors for circadian rhythms and chronobiology. Fireflies flash to communicate and attract mates. Exactly how fireflies synchronize these signals is still largely unknown.
Exhibition catalogue: PDF
