At Lonelyleap we are often asked to make films on alternative and renewable energy. We try to make the science behind these great ideas accessible for its audience, but there are so many unique projects out there which use alternative energy sources for creative and artistic purpose, so we wanted to share some inspiring links this week to show the amazing potential alternative energy has!
‘Eolica’ by Fran Silvestre Arquitectos is an energy collecting tower which has been designed to look like it was sculpted by the wind itself. The inverted triangular shape was created to funnel wind energy into the concealed turbines whilst its deep foundations, like roots, gather geothermal energy. It’s a great example of design working with science to make something not only visually interesting but also scientifically practical.
Another great use of alternative energy is this inspiring project from Hiro Yamagata in Afghanistan who has designed an installation to be set into the cliffs of Bamiyan Valley (near Kabul) – which is a re-imagining of the Buddhist statues that had stood there from the 5th century A.D until they were destroyed in 2001 by the Taliban. The installation is to be powered by a mile long strip of solar panels and windmills. What makes this project so inspiring is; not only would it be a unique solution if they are unable to restore the original statues but it would also generate enough extra electricity for 20,000 dwellings in the valley below whilst also supporting a new tourist centre to help replace the income lost from what was Afghanistan’s top source of tourist revenue. Unfortunately the project has been momentarily shelved but it is still a great example of how alternative energy can add something special to a project.
This years LAGI design competition for New York Parks is definitely worth a mention as its main purpose is to hunt down the best designs for “clean energy” generating artwork from all around the world. All 250 design ideas are not just great examples of potential new energy creating sources but they are all visually beautiful at the same time.
Kraft test drummie & Robert Plant from NormanBates on Vimeo.
A rather tenuous link this week (but its worth it as very amusing) is the “Made of Imagination” – a search to find the best alternative design of a musical instrument. The winning team making (not so) sweet music using a plant and some old metal sponges – we’re loving how they really go for it towards the end! A great example of using nature and design to think outside the box!
Credit: Designboom, Landartgenerator, booooooom and Jesseashlock.com
