Affinity, an interactive light sculpture, depicts the dazzling complexity and connectivity of the human brain and explores the effects of Alzheimer’s disease, one form of dementia.

Step within the intricate web of interconnected orbs representing neurons in the brain. When stimulated by touch, the orbs set-up a striking display of sound and light, representing the rapid-fire transmission of messages between neurons.

As you explore this large-scale installation, sounds and stories about dementia emanate from the orbs. These recordings have been taken from the acclaimed production 'The Keys are in the Margarine' by Talking House Productions Trust, in which actors relay word for word, the real life experiences of Kiwis impacted by dementia. 

Best viewed from dusk, the installation transitions through the night from an angelic white canvas to an ominous deep purple, representing Alzheimer’s and the destructive, gradual and irreversible effects the disease has on our thoughts and memories.

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Aotea Square puts on spectacular display for dementia

About the artist

amigo & amigo interactive lighting and design studio explores the combination of light and sculpture in public and commercial spaces. The studio works with expert electrical engineers to customise lighting elements that adapt to their experimental forms. More recently amigo & amigo have begun incorporating kinetic movement into their installations, further playing with how light and movement can engage audience imagination.

About the technology, S1T2

Story 1st, Technology 2nd is a creative technology agency that believes technology can enrich the way we tell stories. This belief has driven the agency to work with some of the world’s most famous brands, storytellers and artists posing creative endeavours and challenges. We relish every opportunity and work hard to instil each other with the courage to do things we’re proud of.

Alzheimers New Zealand

September is World Alzheimers Month, an international campaign to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimers and dementia. Every 3 seconds someone in the world develops dementia and about 60,000 New Zealanders are living with the condition. This number is set to triple by 2050.

We’re helping to make New Zealand more dementia-friendly by giving information, resources and support to the 2 in 3 New Zealanders touched by dementia.

You can show your support during World Alzheimers Month by taking part in one of our fun Memory Walks, attending one of our September events or making a donation.

For more information, visit alzheimers.org.nz