Shelter, by Aaron Broesky

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About

Shelter is an interactive light installation that invites people to reflect on one of our most essential human needs: a place of safety, warmth, gathering, and connection. Inspired by the evolving forms of shelter throughout time, the work honours the simplicity of protection while celebrating the wonder of light—fire, aurora, sun, moon, and the many luminous experiences that shape our sense of place.

Designed as a pyramid-like structure made from three illuminated sections, Shelter comes alive through sound. Voices, music, clapping, laughter, and nearby rhythms activate LEDs embedded throughout the interior, allowing each side of the installation to respond to its own sound space. As visitors discover that their presence changes the light, the artwork encourages playful interaction and naturally draws people together.

The installation will be constructed with acrylic and wood on the exterior, with weather sealing to support outdoor display over an extended period of time. Inside, LED channels span all three sections of the structure, creating animated lighting effects that move in response to sound. A smaller proof-of-concept version has already been tested at outdoor events, where audiences responded with curiosity, joy, and enthusiastic participation.

At its heart, Shelter is about bringing people closer—to the artwork, to the shared experience of making sound, and to one another. By transforming simple human interaction into light, the piece becomes a welcoming gathering place where wonder, play, and connection can unfold in public space.

Shelter will be on display in the Cultural District for Culture Days. Walk the Art Walk to find it!

This project is funded by the City of Kelowna Community Art Grant program.

Links

• City of Kelowna | Community Art Grants kelowna.ca

Organizer

City of Kelowna

Cultural Services at the City of Kelowna works with artists, cultural organizations, community partners and residents to support a vibrant, inclusive and accessible arts and culture sector across the city. Guided by the vision of a community where creativity and connection help shape our sense of place, belonging and well-being, Cultural Services invests in programs, partnerships, grants, public art, cultural spaces and community initiatives that celebrate Kelowna’s diverse stories and creative talent. Through this work, the team helps strengthen local organizations, create opportunities for artists and residents to participate in cultural life, animate public spaces, support heritage and creative expression, and ensure arts and culture continue to play an essential role in Kelowna’s quality of life, identity and future growth.

Contact

Partners

Aaron Broesky instagram.com