Mesmerising murmurations

last updated 20 September 2022

'Everyone strives for freedom – the works that we make are a reflection of this desire.' So explains Lonneke Gordjin of Studio Drift's remit. The Amsterdam-based practice recently revealed a making-of film about 'Flylight', an intricate, immersive light work that draws on the natural phenomenon of starling murmurations for inspiration.

Hundreds of glass tubes represent the birds. LED light sources – both the warmth and brightness of each can be altered – are placed on the edge of each tube. As the work is approached, the lights 'flock' toward the viewer, following them until 'interest' is lost – reflective of starlings flocking towards a predator to disorientate them. The result is a beguiling installation, visualising, the duo explains, 'a contradiction between our behaviour to fit in society and our individual freedom'.

For more information, visit the Studio Drift film webpage. (opens in new tab)

Rosa Bertoli was born in Udine, Italy, and now lives in London. Since 2014, she has been the Design Editor of Wallpaper*, where she oversees design content for the print and online editions, as well as special editorial projects. Through her role at Wallpaper*, she has written extensively about all areas of design. Rosa has been speaker and moderator for various design talks and conferences including London Craft Week, Maison & Objet, The Italian Cultural Institute (London), Clippings, Zaha Hadid Design, Kartell and Frieze Art Fair. Rosa has been on judging panels for the Chart Architecture Award, the Dutch Design Awards and the DesignGuild Marks. She has written for numerous English and Italian language publications, and worked as a content and communication consultant for fashion and design brands.