Created by ATELIER–E, and exhibited at Futurium Lab Berlin, MULTIPOLAR explores the kinetic potential of atomic structures and translates the states of matter into both visual and sonic form.

The installation is comprised of dodecahedral structures, connected by motorized joints and moving akin to large industrial robot. Their outer elements feature illuminated crosses containing liquid crystals in a mesomorphic state – a visually and physically fascinating condition that lies between solid and liquid. The name MULTIPOLAR refers to the dynamic referencing systems within each dodecahedron.

The speculative dimension of the installation reveals how AI-driven methodologies are used to design and evaluate new materials – according to availability, feasibility, and efficiency. MULTIPOLAR leads visitors through an innovative process of possibility explosion, which culminates in a phase of selection and continually reflects the evolving state space of matter. It is not only an audiovisual exploration of physical states, but a profound engagement with the emerging potential of material science and technology.

ATELIER–E

The installation encourages reflection on the relationship between microscopic structures and their macroscopic implications – a metaphor for transformation and the boundless potential of matter to reshape our future interactions with the world.

The suspended structure includes 16 freely rotating axes, approximately 150 polarization foils, and more than 4,000 individual parts. The predefined choreography of the kinetic sculpture passes through various phases, oscillating between organic and mechanical patterns. Variations in movement speed evoke distinct perceptible states — a structure in constant motion, drifting through an almost infinite range of possibilities. The audiovisual scenography of MULTIPOLAR merges large-scale projection, sound, and kinetic movement into a spatially immersive system.

Across three distinct phases, the projection visualises a contemporary scientific method: computer-assisted material discovery. Using AI and supercomputers, millions of molecular candidates are generated and filtered according to availability, feasibility, and potential functionality. This process unfolds visually as a transition from monochrome abstraction to structured grid systems and finally to soft chromatic shifts reminiscent of liquid crystal dynamics. The sound design mirrors this progression: synthetic pulses and echo motifs give way to granular textures and noise-based atmospheres. The result is a continuous transformation of audiovisual states, synchronised with the movement patterns of the kinetic sculpture—each element reinforcing the other.

Project Page | ATELIER–E | Futurium Berlin