The article discusses the return of DRIFT, a Dutch art collective, to Milan Design Week after a decade, partnering with Audi to present the interactive robotic installation “Drift Us”. The installation, set in the courtyard of the Portrait Milano Hotel, invites visitors to explore how movement connects people with their surroundings. The work is part of Audi’s House of Progress initiative, which aims to engage audiences through experiences that connect innovation to human values.
The installation, designed by Lonneke Gordijn and Ralph Nauta, uses rhythmic motion to mimic the calming effect of wind moving through a grassy field. As visitors walk through the courtyard, they trigger a system of robotic elements that respond to their presence, transforming each participant into an active part of the installation. The installation builds its impact through tempo and rhythm, aligning with natural rhythms such as breathing and heartbeat.
The structure of Drift Us features materials chosen for their ability to respond to light and motion, including 3D-printed polymers, aluminum, stainless steel, and nylon monofilament. Every component contributes to the installation’s responsiveness and transparency, enhancing its floating and rhythmic effect. The sound composition by Joep Beving adds a musical dimension to the experience, supporting the visual and physical qualities of the space.
The article also highlights DRIFT’s history, which dates back to 2006, when the collective debuted at Salone del Mobile. Since then, they have focused on interactive sculptures and robotic artworks that address the relationship between humans and built environments. Their approach often draws from organic systems and physical science, using motion to simulate processes found in nature. For DRIFT, an artwork succeeds when it builds a quiet exchange between its mechanics and the people moving through it.
Overall, the article showcases the installation “Drift Us” as a unique and immersive experience that invites visitors to engage with the installation and reflect on the connection between movement and human values.