It’s like magic! (And that’s just the fingers...)

23 July 2003

Dave Nabti photo

From now until August 3, visitors to the Berkeley Art Museum can combine the challenges of contemporary art with the pleasurable sensations of a Japanese massage chair — part of Cai Guo-Qiang’s installation, Fireworks From Heaven. The interactive piece consists of a circle of these chairs surrounding a central display of electronic fireworks. Visitors use a hand-held device to adjust the chair’s rollers and vibrators, while simultaneously taking in a mesmerizing view of pulsating light and color.

Fireworks From Heaven forms part of BAM’s exhibition, “MACROMATRIX: For your pleasure,” an exploration of contemporary art offering beauty and pleasure using nontraditional forms and new technology. Admission to BAM is free for faculty, students, and staff. For more information see www.bampfa.berkeley.edu.