'swarm study / iii' by random international (2011), at london's victoria and albert museum
image courtesy of V&A images

UK-based studio random international has developed the interactive light installation 'swarm study/iii' 
on special commission of london's victoria and albert museum and in association with the carpenters workshop gallery. 
the piece overhangs the staircase adjoining the V&A's architecture and ceramics galleries, where it will remain for three years. 'swarm study/iii' consists of four cubic forms suspended from the ceiling, each composed of a grid of illuminated brass rods. a camera placed next to the piece tracks visitor movement, causing the lights of the installation to flicker, brighten, and dim in response.

'though apparently inanimate,' the V&A notes, ''swarm study/iii' translates collective behavioural patterns found in nature 
into moving light. the installation is brought to life by visitors' activity, engaging them with both the swarm itself 
and the surround space of the museum.'

view from gallery floor
'swarm study / iii' by random international (2011)
image courtesy of V&A images

'swarm study / iii' by random international (2011)
image courtesy of V&A images

closer view
'swarm study / iii' by random international (2011), at london's victoria and albert museum
image courtesy of V&A images

close view from below
'swarm study / iii' by random international (2011)
image courtesy of V&A images