Whispering Mountains by Studio Eness transforms Queenstown’s plaza into an otherworldly, interactive art experience. Nestled beneath The Remarkables range, the installation features softly radiant, mountain-shaped sculptures that “wake” in response to nearby visitors. As people approach, motion and proximity sensors trigger luminous pulses and gentle melodies. Then an AI-driven voice whispers poetic, reflective messages—philosophical prompts that feel part oracle, part ambient companion.
This installation blurs the lines between technology and nature. Unlike static light art, Whispering Mountains encourages engagement: children frolic among the glowing forms, while adults pause in contemplation. The seamless blending of sculpture, code, sound, and storytelling encourages shared wonder. It’s not just an exhibit; it’s a meditative encounter that redefines public art. By embedding AI within organic shapes and site-specific context, the work raises questions about authorship, spirituality, and digital futures. Are these whispers ours or the machine’s? Such ambiguity invites communal reflection and highlights how technology can amplify, rather than replace, human curiosity
Image Credit: Eness