Coloring with LEDs

Completed in 2014 by a team that included University Health System of San Antonio, Perkins + Will, Vaughn Construction, Layton Construction, and others, the new Sky Tower at University Hospital in San Antonio features more than 1,200 pieces of art on display in public areas and the surrounding grounds. One such installation brings an array of hues to the elevated bridge that connects the hospital to the parking garage with 42 LED backlit panels, adding color to what otherwise could have been simply a monotone portion of the complex.

Created by local artist Ansen Seale and a collaboration between the hospital’s board, electronic engineers, and glass experts, the interactive You Activate this Space installation at University Hospital is constructed of LED lighting, steel supports, and glass panels that light up in response to the movement of people throughout the space. The panels change colors as people walk through and eventually fade back to the original colors, leaving behind a trailing effect for staff members that are entering and leaving work.

At night, the glass panels illuminate the bridge with a rainbow of colors that can be constantly changing with the influx of people walking to and from the hospital. From the surrounding grounds this LED installation offers a unique and energetic view into the transition space. An audio soundtrack of chime tones that accompanies the installation serves to calm and relax occupants as they activate the lights throughout the bridge.