Amsterdam Light Festival 2020

Amsterdam Light Festival interactive installation

Tree x Tree is an interactive light installation created by Biomorphis in collaboration with Ray Interactive for the Amsterdam Light Festival 2020.

The project explores how digital interaction can encourage environmental awareness and collective responsibility. The installation acts as both a visual landmark and a call to action. It celebrates shared effort while addressing the urgency of environmental restoration.

Concept

Tree x Tree presents itself as a beacon of hope. Through light, interaction, and participation, the installation transforms an abstract concern—environmental damage—into a tangible and shared experience.

Rather than delivering a static message, the project invites the public to take part. Each interaction becomes a small gesture toward change. Together, these gestures form a collective narrative of care and responsibility.

Interactive environmental installation Amsterdam Light Festival
Interactive environmental installation Amsterdam Light Festival

Interaction

Visitors engage with the installation in two distinct yet connected ways.

First, they directly control the play of light across the sculpture’s surface. This immediate feedback creates a sense of agency and connection. The sculpture responds in real time, reinforcing the idea that individual actions matter.

Second, participants learn about—and contribute to—the project’s real-world forest. The installation links to a growing reforestation initiative managed by Tree-Nation, an international reforestation organisation.

Environmental Impact

Tree x Tree extends beyond the festival context. Each interaction supports the development of a living forest that exists outside the exhibition space. The project connects digital experience with physical environmental action.

An “empty” forest has already been established online. Visitors can actively contribute to its growth by engaging with the installation or supporting the initiative directly:
https://www.tree-nation.com/profile/tree-x-tree

This connection anchors the artwork in long-term ecological impact rather than symbolic gesture alone.

Outcome

Tree x Tree demonstrates how interactive art and architecture can support environmental engagement. By merging light, technology, and participation, the installation transforms spectators into contributors.

The project shows how public art can create awareness without didacticism. Instead, it fosters curiosity, play, and responsibility. Through collective interaction, Tree x Tree turns light into a shared language for environmental action.

Festival & Project Context

Environmental Partner

Art & Sustainability