Grow

Designer Daan Roosegaarde, used red, blue and ultraviolet lights to transform a field into a dynamic artwork. As well as creating a visual spectacle, the installation serves as a prototype for how certain light can be used to increase plant growth and reduce the use of pesticides by up to 50 per cent.

Despite being a relatively small country, the Netherlands is one of the world’s largest producers of vegetables and has established itself as a pioneer of highly efficient farming techniques. “We thought we should highlight the beauty of this agriculture,” said Roosegaarde.

When Roosegaarde became aware of advancements in photobiological lighting technology research suggested that certain combinations of light can not only strengthen plant metabolism but also create resistance to both pests and disease. Although the technology has been used in greenhouses, Roosegaarde saw an opportunity to test its potential at a larger scale.

Roosegaarde’s aim is to help to speed up the application of this science, but also to create a more universal appreciation for the important role of farmers, who he describes as heroes.