RAPHAEL Z FOGEL
Architecture
Light emerald moth in phototaxic limbo
PHOTOTAXIC LIGHT SCAFFOLDS
NOCTURNAL INSECT LANTERN
This project engages with phototaxis - the tendency of organisms to gravitate towards light.
Nocturnal insects depend on darkness and small amounts of natural light from the moon and stars for navigation, to escape predators, seek food and reproduce. However, when exposed to vast amounts of artificial lights, such insects are diverted from their natural trajectories and removed from their environments. As a result, they die from exhaustion, become easy prey or simply get burnt; light is an irresistible and lethal force.
This project explored this condition, through the design of a nocturnal insect lantern. Insects are attracted and drawn in by a UV light, but instead of becoming prey or being burnt alive, a thick lattice structure prevents access and provides them with temporary shelter. The insects are kept in state of phototaxic limbo; constantly drawn in, yet at the same time prevented from reaching the source. As the lantern becomes inhabited and animated, mysterious night time creatures that are usually hidden from our sight and consciousness, are revealed.
Assembled Lantern
Exploded lantern elements
Ladybird beetle within the scaffolds
Large scale lantern concept
Large scale lantern concept- up close
Large scale lantern concept- detail