German collective Plastique Fantastique have created “superKOLMEMEN,” an inflatable structure encircling a historic sculpture in Three Smiths Square (Kolmen sepän aukio) in downtown Helsinki for Helsinki Design Week. Throughout the event, the installation was used as a space for lectures, performances and workshops, as well as a casual gathering place.
The compressed-air pavilion surrounded Three Smiths Statue, a sculpture by Felix Nylund that has been a Helsinki landmark since it was erected in 1932. Taking the form of an enormous bubble, the intervention was designed to provide shelter for visitors and disrupt the typical atmosphere of the plaza.
Courtesy of Plastique Fantastique
Courtesy of Plastique Fantastique
“superKOLMEMEN is an urban intervention, popping up temporarily for one week in the center of Helsinki, which will change the view and the perception of the place,” said the architects before the event. “The daily life scene, happening in the square that people pass by, sit, walk or drive through, will be converted to a playful environment where people can gather, talk, dance or relax. superKOLMEMEN will offer cultural experiences extending the summer fever to autumn – with a programs organised together with Helsinki Design Week.”
Courtesy of Plastique Fantastique
Courtesy of Plastique Fantastique
Concept: Marco Canevacci, Yena Young
Team: Mirjam Dorsch, Stephanie Grönnert, Antonia Joseph, Julia Lipinsky, Christoph Tettenborn
Photos: Simone Serlenga
Sound: Marco Barotti, Marco Madia
Thanks to: Kari Korkman, Petra Majander, Reetta Turtiainen, Martina Wuoristo-Huhta
News via Plastique Fantastique, Helsinki Design Week.
Courtesy of Plastique Fantastique
Courtesy of Plastique Fantastique
Courtesy of Plastique Fantastique
The Inflatable Architecture of Plastique Fantastique
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Sig Nordal 