Der Weg der Schiffer / The Way of the Mariner

Located on the path along the canal between the bridge at the Ostendorf-Gymnasium and the Friedrichstraße lock, this light art object is based on the classic mushroom-style park lighting that was also once common in Lippstadt. In total, seven of these lights were installed. They have been modified so that one half glows red and the other white.
Approaching from one direction, the viewer only sees red lights with a white aura – from the other direction, white lights with a red aura. The lights were also programmed, so that each one turns off as you approach. They operate independently of each other, so that walking past the row in one direction creates an even movement of light – essentially, you are taking the unlit zone with you.
If several people come from both directions or try to play with the effect, it results in a random pattern of moving lights. The entire section of the path can be seen from the opposite bank of the canal, and a cross section can be seen from the lower bank of the Lippe. From there, a viewer can experience the full range of what the spectacle has to offer; the person walking through becomes the trigger and part of the installation. At the same time, the work plays with its function as classic park lighting in a park that previously had none.

Text: Dirk Raulf (Curator)

Additional information: www.lippstadt.de/kultur/kultur/Lichtpromenade.php