At first glance, Mystery 89 offers a visual experience that delicately treads the line between conceptual art and light design. The meticulously placed rings of light attempt to narrate the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. But how successfully does it deliver on this promise? The work’s primary strength lies in its harmony between form and space. In locations such as the shoreline, the reflection of the illuminated rings on the water’s surface achieves a kind of poetic beauty. Here, light becomes a metaphor for presence and absence, engaging in a quiet yet profound dialogue with the natural environment.
However, in industrial or decaying spaces like ship graveyards, the rings fail to transcend their aesthetic appeal. While the contrast between glowing light and rusted textures is visually striking, it often feels superficial, repeating the same visual motif without delving deeper into its conceptual potential. The artist’s reliance on LED rings as a technical spectacle comes at the expense of exploring the narrative possibilities these environments could offer. That said, Mystery 89 does succeed in its use of color as a symbolic tool. Red, evoking life and vitality, and white, representing stillness and finality, are strong choices. Yet, to fulfill their potential, these elements need to be woven into a more cohesive story.
In conclusion, Mystery 89 is a commendable effort to merge modern form with timeless themes like the cycle of existence. The work manages to challenge both the eye and the mind at certain moments, but it requires a greater degree of finesse and courage in its conceptual execution to leave a lasting impression. The artist has set the stage beautifully now it is time to let the story unfold with greater depth.
Designer : Eleftheria Deko
Photo Credits : Gavriil Papadiotis, Yiannis Kouskoutis
Other Credits : Construction – Installation of lighting: LightsOn , Production: Delta Pi – DIADROMES POLITISMOU
Prize: LIT Lighting Design Award
