4-minute read - by Jessica Timings, November 11, 2021
"By the community and for the community": that's how GLOW director Ronald Ramakers describes the art installation sponsored by ASML as part of this year's much-anticipated festival. The artwork, 'Drop of Light', is the brainchild of artist Gijs van Bon, who worked closely with Ugur Bagci and Roland Blok from ASML. The idea for this piece was inspired by the light source inside an ASML EUV lithography system, as well as the interaction of light and liquid.
The GLOW light festival has taken place in the heart of Eindhoven, the Netherlands, every year since 2006. ASML has been a proud sponsor since 2012 – in fact, Ronald sees ASML as "more than a sponsor." In his words, "ASML is a partner and has been for years."
Since its inception, the festival has drawn more than 700,000 visitors annually. Last year, however, the festival could not go on. Canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19, the festival has finally gotten a revival for 2021 – and the team who had been working on a special installation from ASML were more than ready to show off their work.
Collaboration during COVID-19
In early 2020, Eindhoven-based artist and self-professed tech lover Gijs van Bon was asked by GLOW director Ronald Ramakers and Maaike Yark, ASML community engagement manager, to create a new GLOW installation. Together they defined Gijs's assignment: to create a light installation that references ASML's innovative technology.
Loading component...
Loading component...
Once Roland and Ugur were on board, Gijs discussed his concept for 'Drop of Light' with the two engineers. Together, they started to examine the physics and math needed to bring the concept to life.
Gijs's idea was to create designs and images by directing light at droplets of falling water. And while the concept might sound simple, the design involved intricate technology and engineering with specific timing and exacting accuracy. A unique challenge, ideal for people with unique skills.
"The installation 'Drop of Light' has technical aspects including coding, electronics, mechanics, math, fluids and so on," says Gijs.
Initially, being unable to meet in person and the added stress of COVID-19 meant that progress was slow going. But once all members of the team were in place, a unique collaboration of expertise began to unfold.
