Luna Somnium

Luna Somnium is a dream-like series of works. The work furthers the studio's exploration of the cosmos from a fresh perspective, detaching itself from previous explorations—one that focuses on storytelling and emotional participation. It aims to create a moment for visitors to share a poignant experience in a common time and space.

Videocittà, 2022 | ph. Emmanuele Coltellacci

The work's title draws inspiration from what is considered the first work of science fiction ever written: the Somnium (the Dream), a short story written by Johannes Kepler in 1608 and published posthumously in 1634 by his son, Ludwig. 

In the tale, we follow the journey of the protagonist, Duracotus, as he dreams of being taken by a daemon to the Moon. There, he meets its inhabitants and observes a different sky, one that defies the common sense of the time: through a detailed description of the Moon and solar system, the story wants to subtly make the argument for the Copernican heliocentric system. At the time, astronomy was indeed transitioning from the geocentric to the heliocentric model, as proposed by Copernicus. 

In the tale, the moon becomes the place from which it is possible to observe the Earth, or reality, from a novel point of view. Just like it reflects Kepler's own intellectual curiosity and desire to push the limits of contemporary scientific thought, the tale challenged beliefs and certainties of the time, stimulating a transition to a new way of perceiving and experiencing the world.

The work was initially born to be exhibited in the biggest space we have ever had the chance to work with: the Gasometer in Rome. Given its scale, the conception and production process of the work embodies the same desire to push the limits of what is known and already created in the realm of creativity and contemporary art. Kepler’s Somnium aimed to expand the boundaries of scientific knowledge, much like Luna Somnium represents an unprecedented effort in the field of artistic installations. It transformed and repurposed an iconic building in Rome in a groundbreaking way, redefining the possibilities of artistic expression.

Following the immersive installation, the work evolved into various iterations and versions, aiming to explore the narrative behind the series through different perspectives and mediums. Notably, the installation was transformed into an immersive experience designed for dome structures, as showcased in 2023 at the Zeiss-Großplanetarium in Berlin (DE). The series also inspired more tangible representations of its aesthetic, particularly through prints.

Videocittà, 2022 | ph. Emmanuele Coltellacci

Videocittà, 2022 | ph. Cosimo Trimboli

Videocittà, 2022

Gallerie Mercatali, 2023

Zeiss-Großplanetarium, 2023