Digital Dawn

A light reactive window blind inspired by photosynthesis, 2000

DigitalDawn is a reactive window blind with a surface that is in constant flux, growing in luminosity in response to its surroundings. It digitally emulates the process of photosynthesis using printed electroluminescent technology. The darker a space becomes the brighter the blind will glow maintaining a balance in luminosity. A natural, botanical environment appears to grow and evolve on the window lamp.

Light sensors monitor the changing light levels of the space triggering the growth of the foliage on the blind. The piece explores how changing light levels within a space can have a profound and physiological impact on our sense of well being. It also explores the ability and potential of fabric to flirt on the boundary of physical and virtual spaces as it plays with the ethereal quality of light in a continuous dialogue with its environment.

Solar powered textile

Digital Dawn was conceived to mimic the ability of plants to photosynthesise, Utilising the natural energy of the sun in the day and storing electricity that will be used later to illuminate the blind.

[concept design Rachel Wingfield RCA 2000]

DigitalDawn was commissioned by Future Physical and the Royal College of Art's Innovation Unit and was presented at the Eco-Technology strand in February 2003 at Firstsite Gallery, Colchester.
Since 2004 DigitalDawn is part of the Textile collection at London's Victoria & Albert Museum.

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