IJ-hallen 2023
Because the Night | An ode to ADE
From Wednesday 21 October to Sunday 25 October, the NDSM-wharf hosts a new project named Because the Night, which consists of two artworks by light-artists Boris Acket and Vladimir Grafov. The lightinstallation is an ode to ADE – the events that usually light up nightlife in Amsterdam, but are forced to keep a bit quieter this year. The installation can be viewed from Wednesday to Sunday from 17:00h to 23:00h, and can be admired from afar, but provides a particularly impressive view up close, here at the NDSM-wharf.
The presentation Because the Night consists of two works. Light and sound artist Boris Acket (1988), known for his light works at DGTL Festival, creates the light work ‘BAKEN’. In these ambiguous times with little sense of direction, this installation – created with the help of Chris van Meer, Lumus Instruments, Ampco Flashlight, Think! AV and Van Ham Tents and Stages – shows a sign of relief, enlightenment and life. Slowly, the light moves along with the rhythm of a heartbeat, like a lighthouse. Even at large distances, the viewer can perceive this heartbeat without hearing it. As such, the work emphasizes the deafening silence of ADE 2020 and provides not just the night- and festival sector but all citizens of Amsterdam with a pulse of life. The work aims to present a soothing spot on the horizon – to be seen from various directions – but experienced up close, the viewer can actually hear this heart beat softly. The heartbeat has been built specifically with the kicks (bassdrums) of some of the most used drum computers in dance music.
The second work for Because the Night is by light artist Vladimir Grafov (1964), who, in his installation ‘Invincible Sun’, uses lasers to create an abstract and autonomous play of lines on the Y-Helling – the slope where ships used to roll into the IJ river. The laser lights are inextricably linked to dance parties and form the basis for his work and visualize how, after sunset, daylight gives way to the shining night. Grafov combines science and technology to create new forms of compelling experiences in form, color and sound.
Because the Night takes place in tandem to NDSM Music Digital x ADE 2020 , which organizes five days of live-streamed music programs. During these five days, you can tune in, watch, listen, and socialize along to the music provided by more than 50 hours of top-notch artists, labels and new talents in house- and technomusic.