2006-11-11T08:37:00.000-08:00

With its complex warping, consisting of small hills and valleys in variable densities and gradients, TOPOTRON offers an extreme variety of ever changing course for skating. The modulated, dark asphalt surface stretches over an area of 27,5 to 250 meters and is structured and visually activated by a grid of white stripes painted with reflecting color, that glows in the dark when illuminated by a fluorescent black light system installed along the field. Through this net, the facility receives a unique linear structure, which evokes an effect of a three-dimensional construction drawing that is projected onto the artificial landscape. It also acts as a spatial measuring system for the skaters by further adding a cool and effectual illumination to the skate-park.

Out of these aspects a perceptual filmic quality arises, which has an
exceptional artificial quality that is projecting the virtual aesthetic of a video game, simulator or science fiction movie into the real world. Like a switch- or circuit board the lines guide the movements of the skater who become active participants on an intelligent playing field. This results in an urban aisle
consisting of space and speed of movement and implemented into its
environment like a virtual zone from another world. This scenery also
seamlessly implements the existing communist workers monument as the
historic baroque pavilion into its mysterious aesthetic.

(Text: Stefan Rasche)

topotron dresden