FAQ

Floating Light Art is a site-specific, water-based artistic practice by Malte Kebbel. Each installation combines sculptural forms, light, and sound to create visually and spatially engaging experiences. The works interact with their aquatic environment—reflecting on the water’s surface, moving subtly with its currents, and harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. Floating platforms and supporting structures are fully integrated into the artistic concept.

The installations offer a distinct experience both by day and by night: in daylight, sunlight interacts with the materials to produce dichroic, holographic, and other optical effects, enhancing the sculptural presence and reflections on the water; after dark, light transforms the site into a dynamic, immersive environment.

In principle, yes — however, each location requires a site study to assess feasibility and safety:

• Water conditions: The site must provide sufficient area and depth to ensure safe distance from the shore and proper anchoring.
• Anchoring systems: Depending on the site, existing anchoring points may be used or temporary systems installed.
• Flow conditions: Calm waters are ideal; slowly flowing rivers may be suitable if currents remain gentle.

Yes — all installations are designed with safety and environmental responsibility in mind:

• Fully sealed, waterproof systems protect all electrical components.
• No hazardous materials are used, and no elements are exposed.
• Structures are securely anchored according to site-specific conditions, including temporary anchoring if required.
• Environmental care and wildlife protection are integral to the design process, and installations leave no waste behind.
• Lighting is directed to minimize light pollution.
• Sound is designed directionally to focus the experience and avoid noise spillover.

Stability is ensured through site-specific anchoring systems and platform design. Each installation is engineered to remain secure under site-specific conditions and expected weather scenarios.

Power is supplied via on-site connections or temporary generators, depending on the location, using fully waterproof and safe electrical systems.

Battery-powered solutions are available when needed, and solar-powered installations are currently in development and can be provided upon request.

Installations are designed to withstand a wide range of weather conditions. In extreme situations, structures can be temporarily secured or adjusted as required by the site conditions.

Installations are designed to operate reliably across a wide range of environmental conditions and are adapted to each site.

Typical design parameters include:

• Wind: designed for gusts up to 100 km/h
• Heat and humidity: systems rated for temperatures up to 60°C
• Cold and snow: designed for temperatures down to −20°C

These values represent standard operating ranges and may be exceeded depending on site-specific engineering. Installations have been tested in various climates, including high winds (Netherlands), tropical heat and humidity (Singapore), and cold, snowy conditions (Canada).

Typical setup takes 2–4 days, with dismantling completed in 1–2 days. All installation and dismantling work is carried out under the direction of Malte Kebbel and his studio, Studio Malte Kebbel.

Depending on weather conditions and site-specific requirements, temporary positioning of elements on the water may be necessary during setup or dismantling for safety reasons.

The installation itself can remain on site for a few days to several months, depending on the project agreement.

Floating platforms are typically separated from visitors for safety. Viewing areas, designated interaction zones, and sound areas are defined as part of a cohesive spatial concept during the site study, ensuring the artwork can be fully experienced without physical contact.

Visitors can enjoy a rich sensory experience:

• By day: sunlight interacts with the sculptural materials to create optical effects, reflections, and subtle movement on the water. Visitors can influence certain elements, such as rotating components or triggering subtle changes, creating a dynamic visual experience.
• By night: light and sound transform the site into an immersive spectacle. Visitors can affect sound-responsive elements, while the lighting design creates a vibrant, ever-changing visual display.

Installations are designed for minimal maintenance. The Studio Malte Kebbel provides guidance on periodic checks for stability, electrical systems, and environmental safety. Local teams can assist under supervision if needed.

The client provides site access and coordinates with local authorities, including securing any necessary permits. Additional requirements are determined during the site study, which may include logistical support, access for technical teams, facilitation of visitor management, or the provision of temporary anchoring points if needed.

We work closely with the client throughout the process to ensure that the installation is safe, feasible, and tailored to the specific conditions of the site.

Yes — both the installations themselves and all work carried out by Studio Malte Kebbel are covered by public liability insurance, in line with local regulations and the project agreement. Coverage can be arranged up to the level requested by the client or authorities, ensuring visitor safety and protection of the artwork during setup, operation, and dismantling.

All installations are realized under the direction of Malte Kebbel and his studio, Studio Malte Kebbel, and are developed in response to the specific conditions of each site.

Floating structures are an integral part of each work and are conceived, designed, and provided as part of the overall artistic system.

Each project begins with a comprehensive site study, assessing:

• Water conditions (depth, movement, and surface)
• Environmental factors and local ecosystems
• Access, logistics, and technical infrastructure
• Visitor experience, viewing perspectives, and spatial layout
• Safety requirements and regulatory context

Where required, local partners and technical teams may be involved — always working under the supervision of the studio to ensure technical precision, safety, and artistic coherence.

Platforms are positioned to avoid conflicts with boat traffic. Local navigation rules are respected, and signage may be used if necessary.

For safety reasons, visitors are not allowed to enter the floating platforms.

Depending on the site and anchoring system, water boundaries may be established to indicate safe zones for swimmers or boaters. These zones ensure that visitors can enjoy the artwork from the water or shore without interfering with the installation.

Swimming close to the installations and access to the platforms are not permitted.

We are happy to help develop the best concept for your site.