Architectural Fireworks Competition
Reimagining the traditional firework and pushing the boundaries of pyrotechnic artistry
London, 2024: Bompas & Parr is pleased to announce the Architectural Firework Design Competition, an opportunity to reimagine fireworks as part of the London Festival of Architecture (LFA). The competition will culminate in an Architectural Blasting Chamber experience and exhibition featuring the most groundbreaking submissions and winners. These two experiences aim to explore how fireworks can be used in architecture today and in the future.
This open call is for UK, European and International architects, technologists, dreamers, inventors, and professional pyrotechnicians to ignite creativity and innovation in the world of fireworks and reimagine the traditional firework.
View the full brief and submission details here.
Why Now?
In the realm of creative expression, fireworks have long been perceived as a traditional art form, known for their vivid displays across the night sky. However, compared to other artistic mediums, innovation in fireworks has been relatively stagnant, relying on familiar techniques and compositions. Recent advancements such as computer-aided design (CAD) technology, digital firing systems, and the integration of drones into performances are reshaping the landscape of pyrotechnics. CAD design allows for more intricate choreographies, while digital firing systems offer greater control and synchronisation, enabling displays of unprecedented complexity. The use of drones introduces dynamic movement and narrative dimension to the sky canvas, blending technology and pyrotechnics in innovative ways. These developments signify a departure from traditional patterns and suggest a promising future for the evolution of fireworks as an art form.
The Architectural Blasting Chamber
Alongside the competition, Bompas & Parr will be creating an Architectural Blasting Chamber - an experience so immersive you will be in the centre of an explosion! Guests will be invited to wear speciality PPE, select from an array of powerful fireworks and enter a custom built exploding chamber. The chamber is entirely fireproof and features military grade extraction systems. Light your firework and stand at the centre of the cataclysm as the world erupts around you!
Bompas & Parr has previous experience in delivering spectacular and safe fireworks displays including the world's first flavour fireworks – a display for London's 2013/14 New Year's celebrations that could be tasted and smelled as well as seen and heard. Though all fireworks are, strictly speaking, ‘multi-sensory’, this was the first time in the history of mankind that specific flavours have been choreographed to match pyrotechnics.
More details on venue, dates and times to be released in the coming weeks.
