The Oculus
The Oculus is the first stage of the journey through the Irish pavilion: a high-impact, immersive, 360 degree visual and aural experience of Irish history and culture. Seating in the Oculus is modelled on the Giant’s Causeway. The Oculus is given further significance and meaning by its roof, an offset cone reaching skyward and responding to the solar and lunar sky.
Natural light can be closed off in the daytime while the night sky lends additional atmosphere to the room. The light cone also evokes Ireland’s ancient relationship with the sun, dating back to Newgrange.
Multiple projectors combine to create a seamless 360 degree image that immerses the visitor in stories and sounds of Ireland. A combination of highly creative film and lighting techniques will provide atmosphere and drama.