Architects like the term activation. It makes them feel like putting up buildings, which essentially create permanent boundaries, maybe isn’t such a static, heavy sort of enterprise.
Jerusalem can be a heavy place. It is architecture heavy. Lots of stone, lots of people worshipping stone. What a delight to happen upon the Soundscapes exhibit at the Tower of David Museum one evening. I was able to observe and learn a lot about what activation really means in an architectural context, and in a museum context.
An entire automated orchestra is installed in the courtyard of this ancient citadel. Moving prongs pluck a harp, wired sticks beat on drums, and 15 foot high guitar strings reverberate in arched doorways. The space was truly activated, with both adults running about like children to observe the mechanical instruments at work. It was a welcome respite from all of the heavy sightseeing we did that day.
The colored lights that accompanied the music meshed beautifully with the city landscape, visible from the ramparts of the Citadel.
More information on the Soundscapes exhibit available at: Design Interact
