An experimental and participatory installation developed with Marc Sierro for the Belluard Bollwerk International Festival open call in 2011.
Artistic Experimentation, Participation and Collective Meaning
In 2011, together with Marc Sierro, I participated in the Belluard Bollwerk International Festival open call, which invited artists and creative practitioners to explore the theme of “Hope” through experimental and participatory projects. Our proposal, entitled “Sperenza” — the Romansh word for “hope” — was conceived as an interactive installation exploring how hope can be materialised, shared and transformed through collective participation.
Concept
Developed collaboratively, the installation consisted of a wooden structure pierced with holes forming the word “Sperenza”. Fluorescent light tubes were inserted into the structure, creating a luminous representation of hope. Festival visitors were invited to remove a tube and take it with them, gradually dismantling the word and dispersing its light throughout the city.
As the installation evolved, the remaining structure continued to reveal the word through internal illumination, creating a dialogue between light and darkness. The project explored the idea that hope only becomes visible through action and transformation. Rather than presenting hope as a distant ideal, we sought to encourage small gestures capable of changing relationships, perceptions and shared experiences.
Concept
Developed collaboratively, the installation consisted of a wooden structure pierced with holes forming the word “Sperenza”. Fluorescent light tubes were inserted into the structure, creating a luminous representation of hope. Festival visitors were invited to remove a tube and take it with them, gradually dismantling the word and dispersing its light throughout the city. As the installation evolved, the remaining structure continued to reveal the word through internal illumination, creating a dialogue between light and darkness. The project explored the idea that hope only becomes visible through action and transformation. Rather than presenting hope as a distant ideal, we sought to encourage small gestures capable of changing relationships, perceptions and shared experiences.
Collaborative and Participatory Creation
Collaboration was central to the project from its inception. Working alongside Marc Sierro allowed us to combine different perspectives and develop a concept that merged artistic experimentation, public participation and cultural reflection.
At the heart of the installation was the active involvement of festival visitors. Participants became contributors, carrying fragments of the artwork beyond the exhibition space and integrating them into their own experience.
Although the project remained at the proposal stage, it was a valuable opportunity to explore how artistic concepts can encourage participation, interaction and collective meaning. Looking back, the experience reinforced my interest in projects that bring together culture, creativity and public engagement — themes that continue to inspire my work today.