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Fabric Duct Systems Transform Senses in Innovative Stage Production
FabricAir, a pioneer in the HVAC industry, explored a different application of fabric duct systems through a recent collaboration with performance artist, Mathias Ringennberg, also known as PRICE. This partnership brings the versatility of fabric air dispersion innovations center stage, not merely as a functional element but as essential components for creating sensory experiences in both a gallery installation and a stage production.
Fabric air dispersion systems have been installed in theatres throughout the world for decades due to their virtually noiseless operation and comfortable, draft-free airflow that never interrupts or distracts from the performance. The “L’Air du Temps (air conditions)” performance and gallery installation uses fabric ducting not only for ventilation, but as inspiration for expressing creative ideas.
Fabric Facilitates a Multi-Sensory Performance
In the stage production, Ringennberg explores how the often overlooked sense of smell can be part of the choreography or theatre with a distinct purpose. Embracing air and scent as mediums of expression, Ringennberg delves into the integration of FabricAir ducts within the choreography and theatrical narrative.
“I hadn’t seen a focus on air or scent as a medium in theatre performances and I wanted to find different ways that scent can perform or be staged, be visible,” remarked Ringennberg. “I wanted to work with fabric, curtains, and the idea of façade and FabricAir materials and infinite design options aligned with my vision.”
Through collaboration with Ringennberg, Scent Architect Niklaus Mettler explores the activation of scent within space, utilizing FabricAir ducts as conduits for the invisible medium of scented air. “We often consider how scented air is understood by people because it is an invisible medium. If we look at the fabric and see the holes where air comes out, it is a genius way to illustrate air and scent so people can make the link between what they smell and see.”
Utilizing fabric for the performance had logistical benefits as well. “Fabric is practical and realistic for touring, dismantling, putting up somewhere else. It’s like a tent instead of a brick house. You can take it down and put it up again and it still works the same,” said Ringennberg.
Creative Collaboration with Fabric Air Experts
Ringennberg contacted FabricAir for more information about how innovative textiles can precisely disperse air but wound up with a collaborative partner. “I didn’t know it would be something that would interest them because we are coming from such different fields, but because we’re coming from such different fields, there was luckily a fascination from both sides, a curiosity. I didn’t feel alone in the process,” he remarked.
Through this collaboration, a custom engineered solution was created by FabricAir Design and Development Manager, Michael Mortensen, considering the size of the space and the distribution of air.
The collaboration between the artist and FabricAir provides an interesting example of the intersection of art and technology. Through the versatility of fabric duct systems, the gallery installation and performance offer audiences unique, immersive experiences that engage multiple senses. As FabricAir continues to explore innovative applications beyond conventional HVAC systems, the boundaries of artistic expression can be expanded making air distribution part of the experience.
We’ll share more information about the gallery installation in a future news article, so be sure to look for it on our website and social media pages!
Additional Information
Applications for fabric ventilation systems
Read case studies about fabric duct installations
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