Orchid Circus

THE CLIENT Temporary Entertainment LLC TASK The design and creation of a whimsical and sophisticated environmental installation at the site of the entertainment venue Orchid. PROGRAM The installation is an extension of the performance. A “Garden of Pleasure” starts at the initial view of the gateway location and continues to the peripheral fence. It culminates in the areas surrounding the “spiegeltent” and welcomes spectators before and after each performance. Several factors are considered in the design of the environmental installation of the Orchid venue. The aesthetics of the traditional “spiegeltent”, the iconic fences of nomadic circuses, and the essence of the venue, located in the celebrated Miami Design District, all contribute to the elegant and innovative installation. SOLUTION A combination of bi-dimensional and tri-dimensional structures, graphics, and natural plants recreate a sensual garden vestibule. The Pleasure Garden is an organic, surrealistic, sensory, ethereal experience that previews the performance. Graphic elements are displayed on the exterior and interior of the fence, creating a visual impact on the pedestrian and vehicle traffic of Biscayne Boulevard. The impact also carries over to the interior space of the garden. ELEMENTS The primary medium for the installation is a stock plastic garden lattice. The garden fence lattices reflect a series of bi-dimensional and tri-dimensional silhouettes that create a graphic narrative. This translates to a lush “Pleasure Garden” on the exterior and interior of the existing chain link fence. The fence for the installation is treated with tri-dimensional organic graffiti consisting of overlaid layers of lattice that mimic plants, orchids, and other flowers, creating a kinetic effect. The lattice material used throughout the installation creates a consistent flow between the exterior and interior of the “Pleasure Garden.” The same lattice silhouettes are used to create twelve 14-foot high orchid structures. Each structure is displayed at the exterior of the tents and each stem will hold tri-dimensional shapes of orchids, with six to seven plants of various sizes. In some cases the structures will be adorned with additional ivy, flowers, and plants. Fluorescent stencils of different densities will be painted on the pathway within the garden, giving the impression of petals that have fallen from a canopy of leaves and flowers guiding the patrons to the entrance of the performance. Above the garden a series of trellises creates a canopy. The trellis will consist of a parallel hanging wire system covered with flowing ethereal white fabric, allowing the structure’s skin to move kinetically with the breeze. The fabric will recreate a forest canopy and replicate the movement of leaves on trees within a forest. A sophisticated led light system has been designed and integrated into the performance. The installation will be illuminated with adjustable lighting to create a mysterious surrealistic experience within the garden. The lighting program presents a unique narrative that complements the sophistication and elegance of the Orchid show.