Cosmic Nexus: An Interactive Light Installation

It’s stargazing in the city; expanding and contracting with the sounds of the neighbourhood. Cosmic Nexus, by local artist Ken Hacke, stands over 20 feet tall, spans 10 feet in diameter and has landed at Celebration Square in East Village just in time for Chinook Blast.

Cosmic Nexus lighting up C-Square in East Village

The piece unites light and structure to illuminate the profound interconnectedness of space and time. Composed of light tubes and programmable LEDs, this interactive piece harmonizes art and science, reacting to environmental sound resulting in a kaleidoscope of colours, inviting visitors to play along by modifying the output via interactive controls.

It’s with this interactive element that Hacke gives visitors a chance to be a light designer for the day and hopes to give people “the same sense of joy that I get when I play with my lights.”

Reflected in this piece, Hacke believes in conveying wisdom through the beauty of art, and having a philosophy reflected in each creation. His work is shaped by a deep appreciation for nature’s intricate patterns, discovered through extensive travels and a quest for knowledge.

“Hexagons are one of the base building blocks of the universe, and the lights change as you look at them from different directions, you see different shapes,” says Hacke. “It’s interesting having the piece at C-square because of the tall buildings and features of the area which will allow people to see the piece from different perspectives.”

Hacke crafts pieces that resonate on various levels, offering playful whimsy at first glance, with profound insights for those who look deeper, with Cosmic Nexus being no exception.

On display daily from February 2 - 19, the piece will be open for visitors to interact with on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 - 9pm.

“It’s fun, it’s playful, and it’s interactive, so people can come on the weekends and push the buttons. Using a base building block, you get to create so many different things from something so simple,” says Hacke.

Shaped by the artistry of music and collective creativity, this dance of light and geometry will weave a tapestry of visual echoes. So don’t miss out! Immerse yourself in the interactive luminescence of Cosmic Nexus, a centerpiece of connectivity and creativity in the heart of East Village.


When: February 2 - 19

Programming: Fridays & Saturdays, 5 - 9pm

Where: Celebration Square - 508 7 Ave SE



Don’t forget to check out these great Chinook Blast events happening in East Village:

For a list of all events happening in East Village check out our events calendar.

Miriam Johnston