Bjørn Staal

Bjørn Staal is an artist and software developer based in Oslo, Norway.

His work explores the dynamic interactions between computational systems, human perception & behavior. With more than a decade of experience in multidisciplinary design and software development, Staal co-founded the experimental art and design studio Void in 2015. Focused mainly on the development of large-scale interactive installations, Void has gained international recognition for its work at the intersection of design, architecture, technology, and art.

Since leaving the studio in 2023, Bjørn has focused on his own artistic practice, exploring how algorithms can enrich our understanding of what it means to be human in an age where more and more of our agency is being outsourced. Staal’s work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, as part of online and physical exhibitions as well as installations in public spaces. In September 2024, Staal had his first solo exhibition at Wintercircus in Ghent, Belgium.

0554, Oslo

+47 412 32 199

@bgstaal        / Github

@_nonfigurativ_ / Instagram

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Delta

2022

installation, sculpture

Steel, Plexiglass, LED, C++ code

Tullinløkka, Oslo

Void

Delta is a large-scale lighting installation that transforms the cobbled alleyways of Oslo's Tullinløkka development into flowing rivers of light. Created by Void as both a sculptural intervention and wayfinding system, the installation encourages exploration of the emerging neighborhood through custom made LED-fixtures that wind through the narrow passages.

The installation employs aluminum profiles lined with acrylic glass, set flush with existing paving and concrete surfaces to create seamless integration with the urban infrastructure. Flexible, waterproof LED strips inserted into these channels feature individually controllable four-centimeter segments that respond to 24 motion-sensing cameras positioned throughout the site. This sensor network detects visitor presence and generates dynamic "waves" of illumination that follow pedestrian movement, creating an interactive relationship between human activity and environmental response.

© Einar Aslaksen

The rivers converge at a central concrete "waterfall" that navigates the site's level changes through curved steps and ramps inspired by Norway's coastal rock formations. This sculptural element provides wheelchair accessibility while creating stepped seating areas for impromptu gatherings and events. The design demonstrates how responsive technology can be integrated into urban architecture to enhance both functionality and social interaction within public spaces.

© Einar Aslaksen