Rumblings

A local co-generation utility, internationally known for its environmental best practices, was assumed to be a source of pollution due to its prominent steam plume. District Energy Saint Paul, an internationally-recognized cogeneration plant using biomass, worked with a small group of artists to create light-based installations that celebrated its work and its presence in downtown.

Rumblings was an interactive light display on a downtown district energy plant that encouraged a relationship between viewers and the utility that keeps the city warm. By making a phone call, the public can hear one of six commissioned poems inspired by the plant. The audio recording triggers a light show, making the steam plume appear to speak the words. (Emily Stover)