Kinetic light installation Liquid Tiles Generative light art between system, movement and sound

Light becomes a system. Liquid Tiles is a kinetic light installation that can be experienced as a complex, living system. Combining movement, sound and generative algorithms, it creates an immersive form of contemporary light art.

Originally presented at Light + Building 2026, the project was developed in collaboration between Lightnet and the audiovisual artist duo Playmodes.

The installation consists of 126 computer-controlled, rotating luminaires arranged in a precise triangular structure. Each module is designed as a curved 60-degree segment. This geometric arrangement forms the basis of a Truchet tessellation – a mathematical pattern that enables a wide range of combinations and continuous transformations. The result is a coherent, constantly evolving light surface in which local changes trigger global effects.

Two people in front of a kinetic light installation featuring rotating, coloured modules and mist

Generative systems and audiovisual dynamics

This behaviour is driven by generative algorithms that define parameters such as colour, movement, sound and temporal sequences.

Within these rules, the system continuously reorganises itself. Constantly evolving configurations emerge, evoking natural processes or organic structures.

The work engages with approaches from contemporary media art and combines digital control with emergent behaviour.

A key characteristic is the close interconnection of visual and acoustic elements. The movements of the modules generate rhythms that interact with sound structures. The result is an audiovisual installation that is not only viewed, but experienced spatially.

The generative systems, as well as the custom software and firmware, were developed by Santi Vilanova and Eloi Maduell of Playmodes.

Behind the Scenes: Liquid Tiles

Insights into the creation and development of Liquid Tiles, as well as the collaboration between Lightnet and Playmodes.

Development and interdisciplinary process

Lightnet was responsible for the development and production of all hardware components. Building on its expertise in modular lighting architecture, this resulted in a precisely coordinated interplay of mechanics, control systems and lighting technology.

The development process was deliberately interdisciplinary. The artistic concept and technical implementation were conceived in parallel and continuously refined.

Liquid Tiles is more than a light installation. It is an experimental system that blurs the boundaries between design, art and technology.

The installation demonstrates how precisely controlled components can give rise to dynamic, almost living behaviour, making an important contribution to the ongoing development of generative and kinetic light art.

Further information can be found in the flyer.