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Reflecting Diverseness

Socio-political relevant statistical data presented in a novel and visually striking way, illustrating how diverseness creates balance and richness.

Reflecting Diverseness 01 — © Ulrike Jurklies - studio mo man tai

In the past studio mo man tai have experimented with visualizing data sets and this new installation, using leftover material, stages a present-day socio-political theme in an unexpected and visually appealing way. A simulated pasture of more than 8500 flowers are used to visualize diverseness.

Statistics visualized

Very often important issues in and for our community are losing urgency and gravity through repeated, bland communication... certain topics are knowingly misrepresented to support or ‘prove’ a cause or conviction. The designers at studio mo man tai are convinced that by visualizing these subjects in a new, totally different and surprising way, the renewed attention may make a difference and pique the curiosity and interest again. Because of the uncertain, chaotic times we live in the intentional visual lightness will offset and contrast with the earnestness and it is that combination which makes the installation so effective.
The definition of diverseness is ‘the quality or state of being composed of many different elements or types’. The beauty of the diverseness of our community is symbolized through a large field of flowers where each type of flower statistically represents a distinct group of people living in the Netherlands.

Confrontation with the data

The visitor enters a theatrically lit space and will be taken off guard by the large pixelated colourfull surface and massive amount of reflections all around created by over 8500 handmade flowers. Typically visitors will first take pictures, selfies...etc and only in second instance or when entering in a conversation realize there is a second layer...
It is that different perspective, that brief moment of realisation through that other way of presenting data that studio mo man tai believes will stimulate the conversations, put the data ‘in perspective’ and provide new insights based on correct information.

Sustainable spectacle

Leftover acrylic mirror material, often discarded as waste, is transformed into a captivating visual experience through creative reuse. The reflective sheets are precisely laser-cut into a variety of organic and geometric shapes, arranged for maximizing the use of the available surface and to minimize material waste. These mirrored fragments are then carefully assembled by hand into intricate flower-like forms, each unique in structure and light play. When arranged together in a meadow-like setting and illuminated by a few strategically placed spotlights, the installation comes to life — radiating a mesmerizing array of reflections and sparkles. Each mirror petal catches and scatters the light, producing a dynamic interplay of glimmers that dance across surrounding surfaces. The overall effect is immersive and ethereal, turning simple recycled material into a spectacle of light and form. This work not only highlights the potential of upcycled design but also explores the relationship between light, reflection, and handcrafted beauty, offering viewers a poetic confrontation with sustainability and creativity.

About studio mo man tai

The label mo man tai from the studio with the same name is known for colourful design products but every year, during DDW, as a studio they present personal projects/installations without any commercial intent - meaning, they then do not focus on client requirements or the like but realise an installation (often together with partners) that highlights a selection of values - related to important social, community or sustainability themes.

Reflecting Diverseness 02 — © Mandy Liebregts

Reflecting Diverseness 03 — © Mandy Liebregts

Reflecting Diverseness 04 — © Mandy Liebregts

Reflecting Diverseness 05 — © Mandy Liebregts

Other area, Pennings Foundation, Geldropseweg 63 , Map No. X7
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