S T U N N E D doesn't do justice to the reaction we had to @khaitect's addition to the #aCreativeDC feed on Instagram, and after a little more investigation, well, we're pretty much immobile. Excited to be sharing the impetus and inspiration behind this renegade D.C. art installation ("If you're up for an adventure, the piece is located in an abandoned building near the Rhode Island Metro!") – read on for all things Toki, the collaborative force that is two recent architecture graduates, Tolu & Khai. So much talent; SO MUCH STRING.
"Through our work, we strive to temporarily alter the perception of public space through establishing rhythm, movement, transparency, and ephemerality. We aim to create spaces that are engaging, occupiable, shifting, and allows the viewer to create their own experience."
"Our initial decision to create this series was more impulsive than planned, and influenced by the desire to express the music we hear three-dimensionally. These creations allow us to represent the sounds of music as physical worlds. They start with lines of distinct colors you can follow and the more you immerse yourself, the more they blend and the more you surrender to the symphony of color. Similar to music, the space we create allows you to slip between worlds, to be in two places simultaneously."
"Typically, a piece takes 2-3 days to complete. Currently, for this series, our choice of material is primarily yarn, but sometimes includes nails and wood for the structure. During the first piece we created, the public was engaged throughout the entire process and people were able to watch the piece take form throughout a span of three days. The second piece however, is in a less visible location engaging the viewer on an urban exploration and inciting a sense of wonder. During our process of creation, we react to the given space so that each installation is integral to its site. We plan to continue adding to the series at different venues throughout the DMV area and to continue expanding through establishing a website and creating installations as we evolve."
Follow: @khaitect and @tolu_r /// all photos courtesy Toki.