Bijzon (“Parhelion”) by Wes Broersen

A parhelion, also known as a “bijzon” in dutch, is an atmospheric optical phenomenon where bright spots of light appear on either side of the sun. This phenomenon can create impressive arcs of light around the sun and serves as the starting point for Bijzon — a site-specific, networked light projection in Westerpark. Using focused laser light projected from a symbolic central point high above, parhelion-like circles are drawn across the park. These interconnected circles form a generative spectacle, in which the system continuously maintains its own balance. Inspired by the elusive nature of the original phenomenon, the projections are in a constant state of flux — breaking apart and reforming endlessly, never repeating the same pattern. The ongoing shifts in this audiovisual work aim to reflect the transience and mystery of the natural phenomena that surround us.