New Circadia

Designed and curated by Daniels Faculty Dean Richard M. Sommer with Natalie Fizer and Emily Stephenson from the New York based studio Pillow Culture, the intent of the installation was to create a space designed specifically for visitors to disconnect from technology, and re-connect with their circadian rhythm. it presented an immersive, cave-like environment. In addition to the physical installation, the Architecture and Design Gallery hosted a series of free public programs related to the installation including performances, talks, and film screenings. == Details ==

The installation began on the main floor where didactic texts described different cycles of time and the nature of sleep. This zone was lit from above by artificial skylights created by lighting designer Conor Sampson. - unusually shaped red, yellow, and purple pillows designed by Natalie Fizer and Emily Stevenson from Pillow Culture. the main cave/Dark zone was scattered with large felted loungers meant to evoke rock-like formations. The area was dimly lit and covered in over 6,000 yards of felt meant to dampen sound. The loungers included built-in speakers that emitted soft humming and wave-like noises created by an assistant professor at the Daniels Faculty, Mitchell Akiyama. The third zone, Oneroi, was created by U of T Daniels Assistant Professor Petros Babasikas and artist Chrissou Voulgari. Oneroi consisted of more secluded, curtained areas in the upper mezzanine of the cave where visitors could either create an audio recording of their dreams or listen to previously recorded dreams of others. == References ==