BLACKOUT. A huge black sphere in the Logroño intermodal Station by SpY

Project description by SpY

In “Blackout”, SpY proposes the installation of a black sphere with a diameter of 15meter to be located in the central oculus of the Logroño intermodal station for “Concéntrico 07” Logroño’s International Festival of Architecture and Design.

The oculus in their architectural origin had the funtion of windows or as a passage of light. Etymologically, the word derives from the Latin expression “ochulos” which literally translates as “eye”. In the Neolithic period it was interpreted as a symbol of the gods’ constant vigilance and attention to the actions of human beings.

With this intervention, SpY proposes a reflection through the historical symbolism of the oculus as a window of the gods’ omnipresent observation. It creates a parallel at a time when the digital has gained full presence in our lives through technological windows, establishing itself by way of surveillance, algorithmic observation and a new predictive cybernetic order. A state of digital control that parameterizes our existence and which is gradually changing how we humans relate.

With the installation of this large black sphere, SpY seeks to block the vision and entry of light by occupying the entire oculus perimeter. The volume of the sphere surpasses both sides of the domed ceiling, being observable from different viewpoints of the station and the city.