During my trip to the South Island of New Zealand a couple of years ago, I quickly ran out of adjectives to describe the landscape and mountain ranges, and we were just on the first leg of our journey. By the time we reached Queenstown, seeing all the natural beauty around us had become a common experience. But that didn’t mean we weren’t still “oooh-ing” and “aaahh-ing” at the beautiful mountain peaks and the serene lake visible from Queenstown. While you’ll never run out of natural scenery in the town, there are other things you can experience in this lakeside destination.
Nestled beneath The Remarkables mountain range, The Whispering Mountains exhibit by the innovative art collective Eness is making waves among art lovers, families, and curious explorers alike. This captivating installation blends interactive technology with the natural beauty of New Zealand, offering a unique experience that appeals to visitors of all ages. The exhibit is a testament to Eness’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of digital art and public installations, bringing people together in moments of wonder and delight.
Designer: Eness
The Whispering Mountains is a site-specific installation featuring a series of illuminated, mountain-like sculptures. Each form is inspired by the majestic peaks surrounding Queenstown, and the artwork aims to reflect the serene yet powerful presence of these natural giants. What sets this exhibit apart is its interactive element. As visitors approach and move around the sculptures, sensors detect their presence and trigger an array of enchanting lights and gentle, melodic sounds. The mountains appear to come alive, “whispering” to those who engage with them, sharing a mix of philosophical and sometimes humorous messages. This interplay of light and sound creates a magical environment that feels both otherworldly and deeply connected to the surrounding landscape.
Eness has carefully designed The Whispering Mountains to encourage participation and play. The installation invites visitors to slow down, explore, and interact, making it an ideal outing for families and groups. Children are especially captivated by the responsive nature of the exhibit as they discover how their actions influence the display. Adults, meanwhile, find themselves drawn into a contemplative state, reflecting on the relationship between technology, art, and nature. The result is a shared experience that fosters connection and conversation while also offering moments of quiet reflection.
The choice of Queenstown, with its breathtaking mountain vistas, amplifies the impact of The Whispering Mountains. The setting allows the artwork to blend seamlessly into the environment, blurring the line between the artificial and the natural. As daylight fades, the glowing sculptures stand out against the twilight, creating a mesmerizing scene that is perfect for photos and social sharing. This visual spectacle has quickly become a must-see attraction for visitors to the area, adding a new dimension to Queenstown’s vibrant cultural scene. The installation uses cutting-edge sensors and programming to create an experience that feels magical and immersive. The exhibit also highlights the potential of public art to inspire joy and connect communities, offering a fresh perspective on how art can be integrated into everyday life.
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