Light Rain is a site-specific installation which was exhibited at the UK pavilion at the ‘World Expo 2010’, which took place in Shanghai. The pavilion was designed by Thomas Heatherwick Studio and throughout its six month duration welcomed more than eight million visitors.
Following a tradition that began with the ‘Great Exhibition’ of 1851, ‘World Expo’ is an international fair in which each country is represented by a themed pavilion, presenting their nation’s technology, culture and achievements. In 2010, it was held in Shanghai, China. With more than 200 countries taking part, it was the largest ever Expo.
‘Light Rain’ is a precursor to Falling Light (2010), which operates on a similar mechanical process. ‘Light Rain’ consists of small engines suspended from the ceiling - each carrying a simple lens, a motor and a LED that undulates rhythmically, resulting in the projection of a drop of light onto the floor below. Each light drop rhythmically grows and radiates outwards reminiscent of a rain drop hitting the ground. In chorus, the ear can also make out a subtle humming sounds of the mechanisms, fusing sight and sound into one total impression.