fireflies is a sound and light sculpture that simulates the emergent behavior of synchronous fireflies. Throughout nature, masses of relatively simple elements can self-organize into behaviors that appear unexpectedly complex.

The installation consists of more than 300 individual firefly objects that sound and light up in various patterns in the space. The synchronized blinking of the fireflies is an anarchic manifestation of order that arises without instruction. Fireflies create a stunning experience by using an algorithm to not only visually but also acoustically mimic this natural phenomenon.

Towards the end of the synchronization process, sound and light waves converge and wash over the visitors, as if a higher structure were emerging from the myriad of individuals. Fireflies analogically bring the emergent algorithm to life.

Each of the fireflies is equipped with a motor. When an individual firefly lights up, the motor starts to vibrate and generates the first layer of sound. To complement the motor’s sound, each element is fitted with two micro-vibrators as well as wings made of foil and paper. By capturing the motion of the motors, a multi-layered sound carpet is created.