The inflatable tent will offer a play of lights and extraordinary meditation spaces

source:www.pragueout.cz

Prague - An enormous inflatable luminarium has been erected at the airport in Prague's Letňany, where visitors can admire an intriguing play of lights and colors. The authors of the complex of interconnected meditation chambers, reminiscent of inflatable castles for children, are members of the artistic group aptly named Architect of Air. The Quix Luminarium will be available to both small and large audiences from Friday until July 18.
    A group of artists and architects originally from Nottingham, England, has been creating monumental sculptures of daring shapes, known as luminaria, from inflatable plastic material for nearly ten years. During that time, 2 million visitors have entered their interiors in 34 countries around the world. "Ten years ago, the Arcazaar luminarium was presented for the first time in Prague. However, the one we present today is much larger, has more vibrant colors, and several branching corridors," said Jan Rudinský, director of the Quix agency, which rented the inflatable structure from the creators. They paid several hundred thousand crowns for the four-day attraction.
    All luminaria created so far are original and so are all visits. "There are no artificial lights here. The play of colors is initiated only by daylight, which permeates several translucent surfaces," added Rudinský. Each of the total of 16 structures (the last one is still waiting for its autumn premiere, which will take place in France) has a central part, from which intricate corridors lead to other parts of a labyrinth full of illuminated columns and colorful light effects, creating a fascinating artistic spectacle. The visual experience for visitors is also enhanced by background music in various parts of the structure.
    The luminarium was created thanks to patented technology that utilizes the properties of vinyl, which is sturdy yet pliable and not too heavy. The creators aim to create an unusual space for visitors, where spectators can move completely freely. "Many people use the space for meditation, even claustrophobics feel very comfortable in it," stated Rudinský.
    The Arcazaar luminarium was visited by 18,000 people at Prague Castle ten years ago over four days. This year's installation is named Mirazozo and is one of the newest in a series of these airy galleries reminiscent of segmented circus tents. The tent occupies an area measuring 30 to 50 meters and comfortably accommodates about 80 people.
    "The father of luminaria is Alan Parkinson, who has been involved in their construction and development since 1985. He sought inspiration in the architecture of cathedrals and mosques, but also drew from natural shapes and geometric bodies. Over time, he added tunnels, cocoons, and corner domes to the luminaria," added Rudinský.
    The tour duration is approximately 30 minutes, and visitors also have a map of the interior spaces for better orientation. The Quix Luminarium will be open at the Letňany airport from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The basic admission fee is 160 CZK, while the family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) costs 500 CZK. Children up to 100 cm have free admission. More information is available on the organizers' website.