Before arriving in Frankfurt, the FIFA Globe had been travelling across Germany promoting their hosting of the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Looking like an oversized football by day, the sculpture is transformed into an illuminated globe by night, thanks to 40 Tryka Strip Module Optic IP67 1200mm and six Strip Module Optic IP67 600mm - all driven by Tryka Modulation Drivers and programmed by DMX. Lighting designer Antonius Quodt was responsible for specifying the equipment.
The interior of the imposing FIFA Globe - made connecting 256m of steel pipe to create the desired shape - is split over two floors. The first floor is an exhibition of football memorabilia, whilst the second level is covered in Astroturf to create the effect of a football pitch and - through the use of touchscreens and trackballs - visitors are able to play a virtual game against on-screen players.
Artevent co-ordinated the project and helped in bringing Heller's creation to life. Tryka's managing director Chris Rolph says: "Tryka is proud to be associated with FIFA and to be promoting football to the wide public. The unique event that is the World Cup is deservedly represented by this inimitable work of art."
(Lee Baldock)
