Clavilux Jr. #86

With his equipment, light artist Thomas Wilfred (1889-1968), born in Denmark, created a new form of art at the intersection of technology and modern art. His lumia compositions – meditative, colourful echoes of the northern lights – that he displayed in silence, without musical accompaniment, were shown in 1952 at New York’s Museum of Modern Art. Following Luminar #52, the Clavilux Junior was the second light organ that Wilfred developed. In 1930, 17 of them were made, and 11 have survived. Thanks to its 100-watt bulb and removable coloured lenses, it provided a more subtle, complex visual experience than its predecessor. It came in a walnut cabinet. Wilfred created his light compositions via a remote-controlled keyboard. “Clavilux Jr. #86” has been adapted to be experienced in the Dome.