Crystals Come Alive at Swarovski’s new Chambers of Wonder

Nestled in the Austrian Alps, Swarovski Kristallwelten (Crystal Worlds) continues to dazzle visitors, and its latest unveiling promises to redefine immersive art. Its newest addition? Two new Chambers of Wonder, created by award-winning electronic artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer. These installations blend cutting-edge technology, crystal artistry, and profound human connections, inviting visitors to experience Swarovski’s sparkling world through a whole new dimension.

Swarovski Kristallwelten has long been a destination where creativity, design, and pop culture converge. Past collaborations include iconic artists like Yayoi Kusama, James Turrell, and Lee Bul, which cemented its reputation as a hub for visionary art. The new chambers join the legacy, expanding the possibilities of crystals. These installations are part of a broader evolution within Kristallwelten, which now spans over 7.5 hectares of gardens, exhibitions, and cultural events.

Lozano-Hemmer’s newest chambers, Pulse Voroni and Kristallstimmen (Crystal Voices) are immersive spaces that transform light, sound, and crystal into interactive experiences. In Pulse Voroni, 7,000 clear crystals suspended from the ceiling pulse in sync with visitors’ heartbeats, creating a stunning biometric symphony of art and science. The installation captures the essence of life’s impermanence, reminding us to be present and engaged in each moment. Kristallstimmen offers a completely different sensory journey. This chamber features 3,000 crystal loudspeakers, each playing recordings from Swarovski’s team members, creating a unique sonic tapestry. As you move through the space, the voices echo like whispers in the Alps, layering stories, languages, and intonations into an auditory celebration of Swarovski’s people and heritage.

For Lozano-Hemmer, these installations represent more than art; they are deeply human experiences. “The majesty of crystal is in its invisibility,” he explains. “I want people to leave with a sense of participation and the fragility of art, which mirrors the fragility of life itself.”

Visitors can explore the Pulse Voroni and Kristallstimmenchambers daily at Swarovski Crystal Worlds in the Austrian Alps. With their fusion of light, sound, and emotion, these installations offer a unique opportunity to experience art that connects deeply with human stories – and also with the timeless allure of crystals.

Courtesy: Swarovski

Text: Leilani Streshinsky