Gallery 8 Lighting Halo

Questacon requires a permanent adjustable lighting and projection rig for Gallery 8, the Drum. The purpose of the rig is to expand lighting capability for a wide variety of future exhibition installations in the space. This will include improved lighting for items anywhere on the on the gallery floor as well as suspended in the large void above. The rig will enable the creation of dynamic lighting, projection, and visual effects particularly overhead in the tall gallery void. Together with existing hanging points, the rig will provide the ability to suspend large objects in the void ranging from sculptural artwork pieces to fabrics, scrims or string curtains for large scale projection effects.
 
Questacon has developed a rig concept that features a 12m diameter box truss ring called the Halo - see concept drawings. This truss will require new suspension points from the existing structural steel work above the Gallery 8 ceiling. The Halo will be able to be raised or lowered to adjust the display height for a particular exhibition as well as allow for installation, cleaning, and maintenance from the gallery floor. The truss is to be black to disappear into the dark void and the suspension cables should be visually minimal. Winches, motors and other equipment will be hidden above the gallery ceiling while a control interface should be provided in an accessible location from the gallery floor whilst not adding any visual clutter to the exhibition space. The truss will need power for lighting and projection equipment, lighting and projection protocols, as well as data. A reticulation system above the gallery ceiling is required for minimal and discrete power and data cable management.
 
An 8.5 metre diameter black circular box truss, is also envisioned for the space, suspended from existing cleats or pulley cleats. This will provide multiple customisable rigging points for objects suspended in the space, sail tracking around the perimeter to hang scrims or string curtains, and can also carry lighting and projectors on droppers or risers. This truss will be raised and lowered independently of the Halo, and will need its own power and data cable system, as well as a control system. Again, equipment is to be hidden above the ceiling to minimise visual impact.