Toronto is getting unique outdoor light & sound installations this winter

A new interactive installation is coming to Yonge-Dundas Square this winter. Optik is a “colourful and playful” new experience that will be free for the public to use.

Optik is made up of “ten large gyroscope-like forms” that play with light and sound in a unique way.

Visitors can activate the 6-foot-tall structures by spinning them and creating “their own endless cascade of colours,” according to the description.

At the same time, the structure will begin playing a different musical instrument, including acoustic piano, glockenspiel, guitar harmonics, rain, agogo, timpani, dulcimer, kalima, and acoustic bass.

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The spinning orbs will reflect rays of light during the day and refract the inner ring lighting at dusk.

The result is “spontaneous conversations, dance parties, jam sessions, [and] light shows.” We like the sound of that!

Optik “transports people away from their daily routine and into a state of play,” the description says.

It also allows us to experience “brand new points of view on our daily environment,” and serves as a “unique platform for users to manipulate how they want to see the world.”

Optik will premiere in the square on Friday, March 3rd with an opening party from 5 PM to 11 PM.

The event will feature free warm drinks and treats.

Most excitingly, the large digital screens in the Square will transform into a photo booth for the evening and you will have the opportunity to be broadcast on them!

With outdoor exhibitions like Winter Stations and Yorkville’s ice sculpture festival, it’s clear that winter is far from dull in our city.

Optik

When: March 3rd to April 2nd, 2023
Where: Yonge-Dundas Square