LOOM | Studio Esnal

The installation serves as scenography for the stage at the Albanian National Folk Festival in Gjirokastra 2023, recognized as the most important event in Albanian cultural heritage.

Poised on a rocky spur within the historic Gjirokastra castle fortress overlooking the city and with magnificent views of the Drin River valley, the installation is inspired by the rich traditions of rug making.

The installation utilizes the preexisting structure from the original 1968 Festival, which includes an 8m diameter steel semi-sphere and freestanding columns behind it that were once integral to the original scenography. Like warps in a giant loom, several bands of colored strings run supported between the columns, the arched structure, and the dome, crossing symmetrically to form a light and vibrant textile vault.

The string canopy between the columns and the main performance area extends the stage through a deambulatory, seamlessly transitioning to the backstage. This dual-sided design not only defines the stage space but also the backstage, where thousands of dancers and musicians from all over Albania gather in anticipation of their acts.

The red hues pay homage to the traditional colors found in carpets and regional customs, creating a sharp contrast with the landscape. The long upper bands, transforming into the canopy, are monochromatic while in the denser lower area, a blend of colors is woven into traditional geometric patterns.

The permeability of the installation, allowing light to filter through the strings, enhances the dynamic interplay between the stage and backstage, creating a visually immersive experience that changes throughout the day. In daylight, the installation seamlessly melds with the landscape, presenting a fluid and harmonious presence. As night falls, it transforms, appearing sharply defined and striking against the backdrop of darkness.

Photography: Imagen Subliminal