Franchise Freedom & Shylight by Studio Drift
Dutch duo Studio Drift, in partnership with BMW and Pace Gallery, premiered Franchise Freedom, a performative artwork on the beach of Faena District during Miami Art Week 2017.
An autonomous flying swarm of 300 drones, Franchise Freedom, supported by Faena Art, exposes the tension between individual freedom and safety by numbers.
The sacrifice made by the individual subjecting to the group gives the illusion of freedom, creating a never-ending cycle. Inspired by the starlings that take over the skies of Rome towards the end of autumn, Franchise Freedom mimics the birds’ behavior, roosting together in massive flocks and flying through the sky in large swarms to create breathtaking aerial displays through a seemingly rehearsed but natural cohesion of movement and light.
This performative piece marked the first time that a natural phenomenon is imitated by machines working with decentralized algorithms at this scale.
Certain types of flowers close at night for self-defense and to conserve their resources. This highly-evolved natural mechanism is called ‘nyctinasty’ and inspired Studio Drift to create Shylight for Faena Beach Dome; nine sculptures that unfold and retreat in fascinating choreography, mirroring that of real flowers.
Related Articles
The Faena Questionnaire: Andrés Reisinger
Our rendition of the Proust Questionnaire is a unique take on the famous parlor game that gained popularity, although it was not originally created by Marcel Proust, the renowned French essayist and novelist. Proust believed that by responding to these questions, individuals unveil their genuine essence.
Art, Cultural Adventures, and Current Affairs
Faena Rose is an exclusive private members’ club dedicated to art and culture, founded on the principles of community, cultural enrichment, patronage, and VIP access. Its mission is to enrich members’ lives through world-class programming and to foster a genuine sense of community.
Let The Sun Come In
In anticipation of a new restaurant opening at Casa Faena this fall, Brazilian artist João Incerti has created a vibrant tropical oasis in the hotel’s dining room with his mural titled “Let the Sun Come In.” We spoke with Incerti about his artistic journey and the inspiration behind this stunning artwork.
A Kaleidoscope of Rare Finds
Big Bang has a new influx of one-of-a-kind crafted designs from around the globe. Offerings span from vibrant jewelry and handbags to exclusive swimwear and ready-to-wear pieces, each telling a unique story of craftsmanship and creativity
Spiced Up at Los Fuegos
For the months of August and September Miami Spice brings a culinary spectacle to Los Fuegos offering an unforgettable dining experience that encapsulates the essence of Argentina’s finest flavors and its mastery of fire-based cooking.
Resonant Rhythms
In The Living Room, music reflects the soul of Miami’s vibrant energy. Resident acts from Alfredo Rivero’s American Gipsy to music from Liset Alea, a founding member of the Parisian bossa nova band Nouvelle Vague, captivate audiences on a weekly basis
Sip & Savor Summer Flavors
Restaurant Pao by Paul Qui is redefining seasonal dining with new summer ingredients, an art-inspired cocktail menu, a new wine class, and a must-try Miami Spice menu.
Learn the Delicate Craft of Sushi-making
Promising a summer of delicious discovery, El Secreto’s chef Erik Melendez is launching an interactive two and-a-half-hour sushi-making class this summer.
Beat the Heat
From cryotherapy and hydrating IV drips to summer facials and seasonally priced Miami Spa Months treatments, Tierra Santa offers a myriad of ways to cool down when the heat is high.
Carmen, The Cabaret
In a bold and original move, Faena Theater is set to present a formidable cabaret rendition of Georges Bizet’s 19th-century opera “Carmen,” reimagined by the creative minds at Quixotic, an award-winning performance art collective.