Light Night 2024 Proposal

Echoes of Rebellion

Light Night 2024 Proposal Echoes of Rebellion

"Echoes of Rebellion: From Luddites to AI" seeks to be a thought-provoking experience that unites the past with the present and prompts contemplation of our technological trajectory. It's a tribute to the champions of social equilibrium and a call to conscious engagement with our technological landscape. This installation is designed not only to entertain but also to educate and stimulate discourse on the role of technology in society, embodying the spirit of rebellion that is Nottingham's heritage.

Light Night 2024 Proposal

The statue of Robin Hood in Nottingham is not just a monument; it's a symbol of the enduring human spirit of defiance and justice. With "Echoes of Rebellion," we aim to bring this symbol to life through a captivating light and sound installation that intertwines the historical struggle of the Luddites with the contemporary narrative of AI and its societal implications.

Objective: This installation will serve as a narrative bridge connecting the resistance of the Luddites against industrialisation to today's challenges posed by AI to the workforce. It will tell an evocative story of resilience and adaptability that resonates with the statue's representation of Robin Hood.

Conceptual Framework: The installation will unfold a multi-act narrative utilising the Robin Hood statue as a storytelling canvas, with light and sound as our mediums. Utilising Generative AI imagery, video mapping and laser projections. Beginning with the atmospheric echoes of the 19th century, we will transition through the heroics of Robin Hood and conclude with a dialogue on AI's impact on modern society.

After conducting a 3D scan of the area, we found that the wall behind the statue is 18.3 meters wide, with sight lines to the nearest tree and wall, and an approximate throw distance of 26 meters. shown here in feet.

Below is an image that provides a comprehensive overview of the CAD details of the projector’s location. It depicts the layout with detailed annotations and measurements.

The Red rectangle accurately represents the projected area. Additionally, the orange wireframe adds an extra dimension by indicating the exact point of view of the projector.

This crucial component allows for precise alignment and optimal projection quality and considers the speakers' placement. This inclusion ensures the audio setup is well-integrated with the projector system, providing viewers with an immersive and all-encompassing experience.

Below is the area where the audience could stand, and it is also the best location for the screen and speakers.

“Echoes of Rebellion" is a light and sound installation set around Nottingham's Robin Hood statue. It's a narrative-driven experience that draws from the historical Luddite movement to the implications of AI today. The installation will feature a three-act light show accompanied by an interactive soundscape, inviting audience participation through QR codes and HASHTAGS, (TBC)

Narrative Structure:

• Act I: Robin Hood's Resistance" – The installation will then shift to showcase Robin Hood's legendary resistance, drawing parallels with the Luddites' quest for justice.

• Act II: "The Luddite Legacy" – Utilising a pre-produced soundtrack and animated video-mapped laser projections, we'll depict the Luddites' skilled artisanship and their battle against the encroachment of industrial machines.

• Act III: "AI in the Modern Age" – We'll explore the complexities of AI, using visuals to spark a conversation on the balance between

Below is a preliminary version of an audio excerpt created using advanced AI technology to replicate the experience of a virtual story reader. As an initial attempt, this draft aims to offer insight into the prospective functionality and mechanics of the audio story. By utilising cutting-edge artificial intelligence, we strive to comprehend the intricate workings that will ultimately shape the final product.

Personnel and Artists:

Artist, Producer and Project Leader

JIM BROUWER is an acclaimed AV artist whose works have focused on video, film, and installation works. He has been an active figure in the live visuals scene for over 22 years, showcasing his talents in various renowned festivals and collaborating with notable artists. His approach to art often involves reinterpreting found materials to create pieces that explore concepts like authenticity and the human inclination towards storytelling. Brouwer's work is recognized for its insightful connections between seemingly unrelated elements, creating new narratives that challenge our perception of history and memory. He Illuminated Light Night At Nottingham Contemporary in 2019. and helped bring Youth Landcapsers “Telling of the Bees” 2021 at St Mary’s Chruch in 2022, which was first premiered at Timber Festival in 2021 (see video below)

Sound production Team

TOM WHALLEY Tom is a producer and co-host experienced in podcasting. His new Podcast, Sounds Good Right, is out now; he started at BBC Radio Nottingham before moving to BBC 6Music. With a decade-long freelance career, Tom also lectures and has co-run an independent record label. His expertise encompasses diverse podcast topics, especially creative production with music and sound design. Since 2019, he has presented and co-hosted Service Course and actively seeks new storytelling opportunities in the podcasting world. He is an award-winning Sound Designer known for immersive soundscapes, which will craft the auditory experience needed. TBC

REBECCA LEE is a UK-based musician and sound artist, known for her social practice. She works from her Nottingham studio, creating compositions, installations, performances, and educational projects. Lee holds a BA and MA in Music from the University of Nottingham. Alongside her artistic work, she is involved in community and youth projects, such as the "Tales from the Riverbank" oral history project in 2023 and collaborations with the Youth Landscapers Collective. Lee's portfolio reflects her deep passion for pushing the boundaries of sound and music, establishing her as a prominent figure in the UK's contemporary sound art scene. TBC

LUCY BROUWER is a local historian based in Nottinghamshire with a diverse background in the arts and history. Currently, Brouwer specializes in researching and documenting architectural history and local heritage in Nottinghamshire. She leads walking tours focusing on the architecture of Watson Fothergill (WatsonFothergillWalk.com), Thomas Chambers Hine, and Thomas Cecil Howitt’s Council House in Nottingham. Additionally, Brouwer offers fully illustrated talks across Nottinghamshire.

Technical Considerations:

The Light Night team must arrange a dedicated power supply for the projection, tech and audio amplification equipment.

We will provide proper cabling to connect to the speakers, ensuring a seamless audiovisual experience for the audience during the event.

Given the outdoor setting, we need to Consider any weatherproofing measures necessary for the equipment.

The Light Night team also needs to provide details on the security arrangements that will be in place to ensure the safety of the equipment and attendees throughout the event.

Setup Process for 'Echoes of Rebellion' Using Projection Mapping:

Site Preparation:

The vicinity around the Robin Hood statue will be secured with rope barricades to create a controlled setup area and define the audience space. TBC

The projection surface, the wall behind the statue,

Equipment Installation:

Projection-Mapping:

High-lumen projectors suitable for outdoor conditions will be strategically placed to cover the entire surface of the wall for a fully immersive projection mapping experience.
The projectors will be calibrated using MadMapper software to match the wall and statue contours and features, ensuring precise and seamless visuals
Audio PA System:
Two high-quality PA speakers will be placed strategically to ensure the best audio experience, considering the natural acoustics of the space.
A soundboard will be set up in a discreet location for the audio technician to manage the live sound feed with the projected visuals.
Power and Cabling:
Power sources will be identified at the projector's location, and power cables will be run from these points to the projection and audio equipment, adhering to all safety regulations.
Cables will be carefully secured and covered with cable ramps to prevent tripping and protect against the elements. or raised overhead TBC.
Weatherproofing:
Projectors and audio equipment will be housed in weatherproof enclosures to protect against moisture and dust.
Additional protective measures will be ready for unexpected weather changes.
Testing:
A complete run-through of the projection mapping sequence will be conducted to fine-tune the alignment and ensure the visuals are perfectly mapped to the architecture.
Audio levels will be tested and adjusted throughout the venue to ensure clarity and appropriate volume levels.
Security and Safety Measures:
Security personnel will monitor the equipment and crowd, ensuring all participants' safety and the installation's integrity.
Emergency procedures will be carefully developed and thoroughly documented to ensure that all potential risks and hazards are addressed promptly and efficiently. Additionally, comprehensive safety equipment will be strategically positioned throughout the premises, guaranteeing quick access to essential tools that can mitigate any unforeseen emergencies. A meticulous risk assessment will be conducted to identify potential vulnerabilities and establish proactive measures that can be implemented to minimize the likelihood of accidents or incidents. Such robust safety measures are crucial in ensuring the well-being and protection of all on-site individuals, guaranteeing a secure and harmonious environment for everyone involved.

Equipment Used:

High-lumen projectors for projection mapping.
Laser Dock Laser Projector, to “draw/animate on the Statue.”
Macbook Pro Laptop with MadMapper software for precise calibration of the projected imagery.
Professional audio PA system with precise sound delivery.
Weatherproof casing for all sensitive equipment.
Power cables and cable ramps for safe electricity distribution.

Logistical Details:

Liaison with local authorities for the necessary permits and to meet power requirements.
Detailed schedule for setup, testing, event run, and breakdown.
Plans for environmental responsibility, crowd management, and emergency readiness.

Interactive Elements: The hashtag and QR code will be incorporated for interaction for audience participation/link sharing.

Project Timeline and Staging:

Setup:
Morning: Delivery and positioning of equipment, including projectors and audio system. Immediate start on wiring and technical checks.
Afternoon: Calibration of projectors using MadMapper software, synchronization of audio to visuals, and a brief technical rehearsal.
Evening: Final run-through and adjustments, ensuring readiness for the first performance post-dusk.
Event Duration:
The installation, "Echoes of Rebellion," will commence after dusk and feature 15-minute approx. performances with a 10-minute break in between to reset until 9:30 pm.
Dismantling each night:
Following the final performance, the team will begin dismantling the equipment, packing up carefully, and ensuring all items are accounted for.
The site will be cleaned immediately after dismantling to restore the area to its original state.
Logistical Details:
Coordination with local authorities for streamlined access to power and expedited permit processing.
A small, skilled team will handle the quick turnaround of setup and dismantling.
A plan for rapidly deploying and removing waste management resources, such as bins and recycling stations.
Light Night Support Required:
The event will take place in the public square surrounding Nottingham's Robin Hood statue, utilising the surrounding wall for projection mapping.
Support:
Infrastructure: setups for projectors and audio equipment, emphasising ease of assembly and disassembly.
Event Management: Efficient coordination with a focus on swift execution and flexibility.
Security: Basic security will be present to ensure equipment and public safety during the event.
Technical Support: A lean team of technicians for rapid setup, operation, and breakdown of the technical equipment. (TBC)
"Echoes of Rebellion: From Luddites to AI" is an impactful installation, reflecting the enduring spirit of Nottingham through a blend of history and modern narrative. This approach aligns with the Light Night ethos, offering attendees a participatory and thought-provoking experience.
Contact Information:
Jim Brouwer: Artist, Technical Producer
Email: jim@jimbrouwer.co.uk
Phone: 07894542646
Website: jimbrouwer.co.uk