UNSW Luminocity 2023

Luminocity is an annual exhibition that showcases the top talent from the School of Built Environment at UNSW in one spectacular event for Open Day.

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This year, Abstract8, in collaboration with two UNSW academics, Gonzalo Portas and Charlotte Firth were chosen to curate the exhibition. Their vision was to create something bold and sustainable, with a focus on participatory design.

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Temporary installations are often costly and notoriously wasteful, with the majority of scrapped materials ending up in landfill. Recycled cardboard was identified as the most appropriate material choice due to its infinite recyclability, light weight, and versatility from a building perspective. Sculptural model plinths, large display panels, and an evolving participatory sculpture brought vibrance and energy to the space.

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With the full life cycle of the exhibition in mind, all cardboard was either reused as exhibition furniture or recycled into new cardboard sheets.

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Representing the first full physical Luminocity exhibition in almost four years, following a period of online teaching and interaction, there was significant pressure to excite and inspire students about their future prospects in the UNSW School of Built Environment. 2024 saw a 30% increase in student enrollments at the UNSW School of Built Environment, a figure that Abstract8 is proud to have in some way played a role in.