Iris
A Fusion of Myth, Color, and Technology
2023–2024
Introduction
To spark curiosity ahead of launching their new Tech Hall in Oslo, retailer Scandinavian Photo commissioned Snøhetta Design to create an installation in the atrium of Steen & Strøm Department Store. ‘Iris’ draws inspiration from both the camera aperture and the human eye’s iris, celebrating color, visuality, and technology.
Initially resembling a giant, colorful mobile, the installation aligns into a camera aperture as visitors approach the center, symbolizing Scandinavian Photo’s core business now open on the 5th floor of the department store. Additionally, visitors can use a custom app to control Iris’s colors in real-time, paying homage to Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow.
Technical details
Scandinavian Photo
Photo: OiOiOi
Photo: OiOiOi
The installation towers 15 meters high, dominating the atrium with its vibrant presence. Visitors entering the department store encounter Iris as a kaleidoscope of shifting shapes and hues. As they move closer, the perspective evolves, and the various elements of the installation align to form the image of a single iris.
The realization of Iris was made possible through a close collaboration between Snøhetta and Scandinavian Photo. Drawing on Scandinavian Photo’s extensive inventory, the installation integrates their products in innovative ways. Godox SL300R photography lamps were embedded into the structure, providing dynamic lighting effects that bring the installation to life. Additionally, hardware components were carefully selected and configured to enable seamless communication with a custom-built back- and front-end system.
Photo: OiOiOi
Photo: OiOiOi
Photo: OiOiOi
Hardware meets Software
To ensure precise control over the lighting and interactivity, Snøhetta developed a bespoke software solution using openFrameworks, a versatile C++ framework. This software allows for individual control of each Godox lamp, enabling the creation of complex and dynamic lighting patterns. Moreover, the system is designed for scalability, accommodating future enhancements such as 3D sensors or integrations with external APIs, further expanding the potential for interactivity and user engagement
Photo: OiOiOi
A central feature of the installation is its interactivity, designed to invite public participation and foster a deeper connection with the artwork. Through a custom front-end application, visitors can select the color palette displayed on Iris, personalizing the installation in real time.
To complement this public-facing feature, a control panel was developed for Scandinavian Photo, allowing the company to create custom lighting schemes for special occasions. Whether celebrating Norway’s Constitution Day, Pride Month, or the festive spirit of Christmas, Iris can be tailored to suit the mood, transforming the atrium into a dynamic space that reflects the vibrancy of the seasons.
Photo: Private
Photo: Private
Photo: Private
Photo: Private
Photo: Private
Photo: Private
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