Concepts unveiled for artworks capable of producing clean energy

The fifth biennial Land Art Generator Initiative (LAGI) design competition concluded recently with 25 world-changing designs shortlisted by the LAGI 2018 jury. Hundreds of people from more than 50 countries around the world submitted proposals for large-scale works of public art capable of producing clean energy for St Kilda Triangle area in Melbourne. Sponsored by the State of Victoria as part of a renewable energy action plan, the competition encourages participants to envision a clean energy landscape for a post-carbon world.
 
This year’s entrants were tasked with superimposing their designs onto a masterplan developed by the City of Port Phillip Council authorities in consultation with the community. For LAGI co-founders Elizabeth Monoian and Robert Ferry, this is especially exciting since the competition could lead to contestants joining a larger team moving the City’s development forward. Monoian and Ferry issued a joint statement saying: “Over the past year and a half we’ve enjoyed experiencing the vibrant arts and culture scene in Victoria and learning about the ambitious decarbonization strategy that the state has developed. These two aspects have really come together beautifully and are reflected in the outcomes of the 2018 LAGI design competition.”

Shortlisted designs include Sun Ray by Antonio Maccà, a “specular sun” that uses linear Fresnel technology that can power 220 homes, and Dreamtime by Kyle Taveira, which comprises 462 swaying piezoelectric poles flying colourful triboelectric ribbons. Guy Abrahams, LAGI jury member  and co-founder of arts for a safe climate charity CLIMARTE,  said that the designs on his shortlist were not only creative but also feasible. “We really need things that will link people between the world we know and the world we know we need,” he commented. “My hope is that the winning design will display imagination, creativity, and technical know-how, but also is something which, given the appropriate support, could actually be built.”

The winning teams will be announced on 11 October at Fed Square in Melbourne.

Lucy Nordberg
TenderStream Head of Research

This competition was first published by TenderStream here

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