Luminous art installation ‘Peaks’

In the realm of contemporary art, the fusion of finance and aesthetics presents a unique challenge. The luminous art installation “Peaks”, commissioned to commemorate the 20th anniversary of INVEGA, embodies this intersection. This luminous art installation not only celebrates two decades of financial growth but also serves as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between economics and art.

I have chosen to depict the form of the installation as a cornucopia – a symbol of wealth and prosperity. This idea came from looking at the company logo, a fragment of which became the main form. It was also important that the large-scale installation, which was displayed next to the White Bridge, should not obscure the cityscape of Vilnius, but at the same time be clearly visible from all sides.After three months of planning, discussions, sketching and vision development, it was time to realise the ‘Peaks’. Working with a team of fifteen people, the largest project of my career – 50 m long, 100 m wide and covering an area of 5,000 square metres – has grown. We used aluminium profiles to form the tops, which were spaced every 5 metres. To create a bright and luminous installation, we placed one kilometre of LED tape in the profiles. In order not to damage the natural cover, we mounted the strips on metal plates.When the tops had taken shape, we started to spike the metal rods. In total, we used 46,000 pieces, which swayed in the wind and allowed people to walk through them and see the work from all sides. ‘Peaks’ looked most spectacular at night – the installation glowed so brightly that it could even be seen through an aeroplane window.

Dimensions: 5000 sq/m

Conceptualization and Inspiration for Luminous Art Installation

The initial task was to translate the abstract theme of finance into a tangible and engaging artwork. The concept of “Peaks” emerged as a visual representation of INVEGA’s annual financial milestones. Each of the 21 peaks symbolizes a year of the company’s operations, with the height corresponding to the amount of funding applied that year. The metal plants with mirror tops represent the businesses that received funding, reflecting the growth and prosperity facilitated by INVEGA.

The form of the installation draws inspiration from the cornucopia, a classical symbol of wealth and abundance. This idea was further reinforced by elements of INVEGA’s logo, integrating corporate identity into the artwork’s design. Positioned adjacent to the White Bridge in Vilnius, the installation was meticulously planned to complement the cityscape, ensuring visibility from all angles without overshadowing the surrounding environment.

Design and Materials for Luminiscent Art Installation

The realization of “Peaks” was a collaborative effort involving a team of fifteen professionals over three months. The installation spans 50 meters in length and 100 meters in width, covering an area of 5,000 square meters, making it one of the largest projects undertaken.

Aluminum profiles were utilized to construct the peaks, spaced at five-meter intervals. To achieve the luminous effect, one kilometer of LED tape was embedded within these profiles. The decision to use aluminum was driven by its lightweight properties and resistance to corrosion, ensuring durability while facilitating ease of installation.

To preserve the natural ground cover, the structures were mounted on metal plates, minimizing environmental impact. The installation also features 46,000 metal rods, which sway gently with the wind, creating a dynamic visual experience. This design allows visitors to walk through the installation, offering an immersive experience that can be appreciated from multiple perspectives.

Luminous Art and Its Impact

Luminous art, characterized by the use of light as a primary medium, has the power to transform spaces and evoke emotional responses. The “Peaks” installation exemplifies this by illuminating the nightscape of Vilnius, creating a beacon of light that symbolizes financial growth and prosperity.

The strategic use of LED lighting not only enhances the visual appeal but also underscores the theme of illumination, both literally and metaphorically. The glowing peaks serve as a metaphor for the enlightenment and opportunities provided by INVEGA’s financial support to businesses.

Challenges and Solutions

One of the primary challenges was to artistically represent the abstract concept of finance. This was addressed by conceptualizing financial growth as ascending peaks, a universal symbol of achievement and progress.

Another challenge was the scale of the luminous art installation and its integration into the urban environment. The design had to ensure that the installation was prominent yet harmonious with the cityscape. This was achieved through careful planning and the use of materials that complemented the surroundings.

Environmental considerations were also paramount. The installation was designed to be temporary, with minimal impact on the natural ground cover. The use of metal plates for mounting and the selection of energy-efficient LED lighting reflect a commitment to sustainability.

Audience Engagement and Reception

“Peaks” was designed to be interactive, allowing visitors to walk through and engage with the installation. This interactivity fosters a deeper connection between the audience and the artwork, encouraging contemplation of the themes of growth and prosperity.

The installation received significant attention and was featured in the Vilnius Light Festival program. Its visibility, even from an airplane window, underscored its impact as a landmark within the city. The luminous display captivated both residents and visitors, sparking discussions about the fusion of art and finance.

Luminism and Contemporary Art

The “Peaks” installation aligns with the principles of luminism, an art movement that emphasizes the effects of light in landscape painting. While traditional luminism focuses on the depiction of natural light, contemporary interpretations, such as “Peaks,” utilize artificial light to create immersive environments.

This approach reflects a modern understanding of luminism, where the manipulation of light serves to enhance the viewer’s experience and convey deeper meanings. In “Peaks,” the use of LED lighting not only illuminates the installation but also symbolizes the enlightenment and growth associated with financial success.

Technological Advancements in Luminescent Art

The creation of “Peaks” was made possible through advancements in lighting technology. The use of LED tape allowed for a flexible and energy-efficient solution to achieve the desired luminous effect.

LED technology offers numerous advantages, including lower energy consumption, longer lifespan, and greater design flexibility compared to traditional lighting. These benefits make it an ideal choice for large-scale installations like “Peaks,” where both performance and sustainability are crucial.

The “Peaks” installation stands as a testament to the harmonious integration of art and finance. Through its luminous design, it encapsulates the themes of growth, prosperity, and enlightenment. The project not only commemorates INVEGA’s 20-year journey but also enriches the cultural landscape of Vilnius, offering a space for reflection and inspiration.

As a luminous art installation, “Peaks” exemplifies the potential of contemporary art to convey complex concepts through innovative design and technology. It invites viewers to explore the interplay between light and form, encouraging a deeper appreciation of the art that illuminates our world.

In the broader context of luminescent art, “Peaks” contributes to the evolving narrative of how light can be harnessed to create meaning and evoke emotion.

About the Artist

Agnė Kišonaitė is a Lithuanian artist known for her vibrant and thought-provoking installations that merge aesthetics with deeper conceptual themes. Her work often incorporates light and reflective materials to create immersive experiences that challenge perceptions and evoke emotion. With a background in design and fine arts, Agne’s approach is deeply rooted in exploring the relationship between form, function, and meaning. From intricate modern acrylic paintings to large-scale public installations, her art bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation. Her projects, including “Peaks,” highlight her ability to transform abstract ideas into tangible, engaging works that captivate and inspire audiences worldw