M.A.R.S. Festival

Developed for live performances at The Vortex in Los Angeles, this project combines holographic projection with audio-reactive generative visuals. The visual system responds in real time to microphone and instrument signals from performers on stage, translating sound into dynamic imagery.

For Katharina Rosenberger’s performance—based on Jorge Luis Borges’ “The Circular Ruins”—the visuals explore transfigurations of the human form, reflecting the protagonist’s attempts to dream a figure into existence. Prerecorded 3D video footage is processed and driven by live audio input.

Genoel von Lilienstern’s piece addresses industrial music production through dense layers of mainstream pop samples. The accompanying visuals follow a parallel logic, constructing morphing sculptures from mass-produced plastic objects—another byproduct of cultural streamlining.

The holographic effect is achieved through back-projection onto thin acrylic glass wrapped in holographic foil, creating a floating, semi-transparent image plane that merges performer, sound, and generated image into a unified visual field.

2018 • Los Angeles • Vortex
Design, development and production

Client: M.A.R.S. Festival
Music: Katharina Rosenberger
Music: Genoel von Lilienstern
Design: THISPLAY