Michaela Gleave
The Radius of Infinity
2019
Morse code through mist: LED theatre lamp, stand, misting system, Arduino, custom software
Lighting design consultant and custom software: Fausto Brusamolino
Installation view: The Lock Up, Newcastle, Australia. Photograph: Michaela Gleave
-..- - --- - .... . .--. --- .-- . .-. --- ..-. ..--- .--. .-.. ..- ... -.-- - --- - .... . .--. --- .-- . .-. --- ..-. - .-- --- .--. .-.. ..- ... --.. - --- - .... . .--. --- .-- . .-. --- ..-. ..--- -- .. -. ..- ... -.-. - --- - .... . .--. --- .-- . .-. --- ..-. ..--- - - --- - .... . .--. --- .-- . .-. --- ..-. ..--- . --.- ..- .- .-.. ... --.. . .-. ---
The radius of infinity considers the extent of the knowable universe, taking as its starting point the mathematical equation x2 + y2 + z2 - c2t2 = 0. Visualised as a cone of light travelling out through space and time, this equation describes the maximum impact any one event can have on the universe.
Using the medium of light and language of Morse code, The Radius of Infinity transmits this equation out through space. Passing through a fine mist of water droplets, the light illuminates the water as a swirling mass of falling stars, a flickering circle of light hitting the rear wall as the message terminates.
Created using a theatre lamp and Morse code, The Radius of Infinity reflects upon the boundaries of existence - internal and external - as they shift over time. Informed by Bachelard’s Water and Dreams, The Radius of Infinity responds to humanities dreams of a cosmic ocean, of infinite depths, with liquid water the single element that distinguishes our life on Earth from the barren expanses of the cosmos.
‘Here, on the edge of what is known, in contact with the ocean of the universe, shines the mystery and beauty of the World. And it is breathtaking.’ Carlo Rovelli
A catalogue essay from the exhibition is available here.