Since they have been creating site-specific and interactive installations, sculptures and small-scale buildings within the scope of art and architecture. Atelier ARI is fascinated by the search of a dialogue between the work, the visitor and the the context. The works elicit an active role from the visitor. With a conceptual approach focused on the importance of experience, Atelier ARI creates memorable moments that invite people to explore and experience their surroundings in an alternative and unexpected way.
The town of Bethune is surrounded by industrial erea with lots of industrial heritage. The shape of the pavilion is inspired from the old water towers that are one of the iconic and historic landmarks in the erea. From the outside, the artwork is literally reflecting the beautiful surroundings, from the inside the artwork becomes an explosion of colours. Le Voyeur is back on its place in Parc des Iles!
We replaced the temporary, wooden structure wich was destroyed after a storm for a much stronger shiny aluminium structure. The top of the roof is now also a mirror, so you can not only see the landscape from bird-eye perspective but the mirror also reflects the sky, so you can watch the clouds pass by. The Banana Republic is an interactive art installation along the route of the 73rd Airborne March, a walking tour in remembrance of the more than 1.
During the march the people are confronted with a propagandistic manifestation of the Banana Republic, to glorify the exotic and beloved Banana Plant and the chosen Banana Specie. As the walkers pick-up and eat the Bananas, the totalitarian system is slowly broken down. The pavilion works like an inverted watchtower, and invites you to observe the transformed landscape in a different way.
Lying in the pavilion, people can observe an overview on the landscape from a low point. Assiniboine River. The red, almost four meter high barrier spans the river, creates a strong border, and is clearly visible in the contrasting white snowy landscape. Skaters and pedestrians can cross the border over the full length. Open Border responds to the tensed political climate. The completion of the project is at the same that the United States president his plans for the construction of a wall along the Mexican border.
