Beside the physical object (metal frames), the work has a virtual layer as well. The virtual layer is spatially projected (3D mapped) onto the surface of the real, exhibited object. 

The artwork deals with the unique power of light and shadows to modulate space, showing how the relation between the real and the virtual content – combined with 3D mapping techniques – can affect the way we see and perceive the visual experience. The re-projection of the virtual 3D animation onto the real three-dimensional scene, and the interplay that results from the combination of the two components (real-virtual), results in a novel and perplexing visual experience. By changing the position of the virtual light and shadows, viewers can no longer interpret their visual impressions using their accustomed methods, because the projected image modifies the surface and the space it is projected to, overriding our logical schemes of understanding. The projection derails the viewer’s customary schemes of perception and urges them to create new processes of interpretation.

Since 2019, Umbra Triplicata is part of the ZKM | Center for Art and Media (ZKM | Zentrum für Kunst und Medien – Karlsruhe) permanent collection, considered to be the very first 3d mapping installation purchased by a notorious collection.

Concept, 3d animation and 3d mapping: László Zsolt Bordos

Metal frames: elder László Bordos

Photo by: Felix Grünschloss

PETER WEIBEL about Umbra Triplicata:

The play with projected and real shadows, with projected and real geometry places the work into the tradition of the history of shadow painting and light art. The visually undecidable gap between representation and reality makes Umbra Triplicata also a singular conceptual work. Umbra Triplicata by Laszlo Bordos is one of the best works of light art.