Photo: Deutsches Museum / bit.studio 2025
Thailand-based creative collective bit.studio sees technology as a resource for art, rather than something that hinders creativity. Prompted by their background in software development, robotics, machine learning, and interactive design, they’ve created the interactive installation FLOCK OF. Here, a school of shimmering fish swim through the air and swarm spectators, sending a message about the ever-changing nature of existence.
The installation features 20 fish, each made up of a 5-f00t-long helium-filled balloon with two motors. The first is in their bellies, allowing them to float at heights of up to 10 feet, while the other is in their tail, providing speed and direction. The Ultra-wideband (UWB) sensors in the fish and the exhibition area let the system know where each ballon is, informing the software that calculates the trajectory for each fish. This keeps the inflatable creatures moving harmoniously and forming different patterns with seamless movements.
“FLOCK OF is a project that challenges preconceptions and sparks curiosity, redefining imagination and reality,” write the creators. “This artistic journey blurs boundaries, showcasing a surreal spectacle where a school of fish soars through the skies. It reveals the interconnectedness of nature, highlighting the profound harmony and adaptation of diverse elements.”
The installation made its debut in 2023, and has toured the world ever since. After visiting Japan, the Czech Republic, Greece, France, and Poland earlier this year, FLOCK OF landed at the Museum of the Future in Nuremberg, Germany, for three days in October. Up to 20 visitors were able to step into the middle of the school of fish at the same time, ensuring no two moments within this installation were the same.
“FLOCK OF is an artistic project with innovative sensor technology—masterfully employed,” says Marion Grether, director of the Museum of the Future. “Robotics is often perceived as massive and threatening—an image shaped by science fiction films. With FLOCK OF, we want to show a different side of robotics: gentle, organic, and almost natural.”
To stay up to date with this creative collective and know where FLOCK OF will be exhibited next, follow bit.studio on Instagram.
Creative collective bit.studio created the interactive installation FLOCK OF, made up of 20 moving fish-shaped balloons.
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Photo: Deutsches Museum / bit.studio 2025
The shimmering fish swim through the air and swarm spectators, sending a message about the ever-changing nature of existence.
Photo: Deutsches Museum / bit.studio 2023
“FLOCK OF is a project that challenges preconceptions and sparks curiosity, redefining imagination and reality,” write the creators.
Photo: Deutsches Museum / bit.studio 2023
bit.studio: Website | Instagram
All images via German Museum Nuremberg – The Museum of the Future.
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