Floating Light Art – FAQ

Floating light art consists of site-specific light installations on water, designed to engage with the unique conditions of each environment.

The works are experienced across the full cycle of the day. In daylight, they appear as sculptural forms, interacting with:

• natural light

• reflections on the water surface

• movement shaped by wind and subtle currents

As light conditions shift, the installations gradually transform. At dusk and into the night, they unfold into immersive light environments, where:

• light is reflected, diffused, and amplified by the water

• movement becomes more pronounced and perceptible

• the surrounding space is redefined through color, rhythm, and intensity

Rather than being static objects, these works exist in a state of continuous change, shaped by time, weather, and the dynamics of water itself.

In principle, yes — but it depends on:

• Ownership (private vs. public)

• Type of water body (e.g. drinking water reservoir vs. recreational lake)

• Local regulations and permits

We help assess what is feasible for your specific location.

In most cases: yes.

Typical requirements include:

• Approval from the property owner or local authority

• Environmental or conservation permits (if applicable)

• Safety approvals for public access

We can support you in identifying and navigating these requirements.

Yes — when properly designed:

• Fully sealed, waterproof systems

• No hazardous materials or exposed electrical components

• Secure anchoring systems adapted to the site

Environmental responsibility is a core part of our design process.

We use:

• Floating platforms or specialized buoyant structures

• Site-specific anchoring systems (depending on depth, wind, and conditions)

Each installation is engineered to suit the specific environment.

Depending on the project:

• Battery-powered systems

• Solar-supported solutions

• Temporary power supply from shore (most common)

Installations are designed to withstand:

• Normal wind and weather conditions

In extreme conditions (e.g. storms), they can be:

• Temporarily switched off

• Or removed from the water if necessary

• Setup: from a few hours to a few days, depending on scale

• Operation: from one evening to several weeks

• Dismantling: typically quick and non-invasive

From:

• Small, intimate light objects

  to

• Large-scale installations for festivals or public events

The scale is always adapted to the location and budget.

Costs depend on:

• Size and number of elements

• Duration

• Technical complexity

We offer both predefined packages and custom concepts with transparent pricing.

Yes — especially:

• As part of events or festivals

• In public parks or accessible waterfronts

• Combined with cultural programming

Light on water has a strong visual and emotional impact, particularly at night.

Depends on the concept:

• Viewing from shore

• Or interactive / accessible formats (if safely feasible)

Most floating installations are designed to operate autonomously and require minimal or no on-site maintenance.

• For larger or interactive events, limited supervision may be provided to ensure visitor safety and smooth operation.

• Smaller, self-contained setups run independently, allowing the artwork to function reliably without staff.

To ensure smooth installation and operation, the client typically provides:

• Access to the site and water

• Coordination with local authorities (permits, safety clearances)

• Available anchor points or suitable areas for securing floating structures

• Support with infrastructure, if necessary (e.g., power supply, safety equipment, temporary barriers)

All design, engineering, transport, handling, and installation work is handled by Studio Malte Kebbel, with the studio overseeing every step to ensure technical precision, artistic integrity, and environmental responsibility.

• Optional: Local helpers can assist on site, but always under direct instruction and supervision of Studio Malte Kebbel.

Each project is conceived as a fully integrated system, designed specifically for its water environment and long-term public presence.

All systems use weather-resistant, waterproof components with low maintenance requirements and are engineered for reliable, all-weather operation. Particular care is given to integrating the work responsibly within public and natural contexts, with a strong focus on safety, durability, and spatial impact.

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

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

Each project begins with a comprehensive site study, assessing:

• water conditions

• environmental factors

• access and infrastructure

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

Safety is a core aspect of every project.

All floating structures are designed and maintained according to professional safety standards. Any third-party involvement takes place strictly under the direction and authorization of the artist.

Local personnel may assist during installation or operation, but always under the instruction and supervision of Studio Malte Kebbel, ensuring:

• safe working conditions

• proper installation and maintenance

• protection of the artwork

• care for the surrounding environment

All water-based and touring artworks are conceived, developed, and created by Malte Kebbel and Studio Malte Kebbel.

They are exclusively represented by the studio, and all inquiries, collaborations, and bookings are handled directly through:

[email protected]

All installations are planned to coexist safely with existing water traffic.

• Projects are coordinated with the site owner or local authorities to identify areas used for boats, kayaks, or other watercraft.

• Clear safety zones and boundaries are established around the floating artwork.

• Signs, buoys, or temporary markers may be used to ensure that water traffic does not interfere with the installation.

The goal is to ensure a safe experience for both visitors on watercraft and the artwork itself.

• Direct interaction with the floating structures is usually restricted for safety and to protect the artwork.

• Depending on the site, controlled experiences (such as paddling or guided interaction) can be arranged, but always under the supervision of Studio Malte Kebbel.

• Swimming is generally not allowed near installations unless explicitly permitted by the site authority and coordinated with the studio.

Safety and preservation of the environment and the installation are always the top priorities.

We’re happy to evaluate its potential and explore possible concepts with you.