Quantum Lens

What if we could perceive our surroundings through the lens of quantum physics?

Quantum Lens explores the quantum realm, where subatomic particles defy classical laws of physics. Using a Mixed Reality headset as a symbolic “Quantum Lens”, Studio Above&Below creates an immersive experience that unfolds in three chapters, each poetically interpreting a key quantum principle and its technological applications, giving visual expression to the bizarre world of quantum physics.

Each chapter begins with an introductory video before transitioning into an interactive experiential sculpture. The poetic narratives invite audiences to explore the smallest realms of reality as well the far-reaching implications of quantum physics for society and our technological landscape, while emphasising the responsibility to understand and shape its impact.

Chapter 1: Entanglement
When two quantum particles interact, they become inseparably linked, sharing a unified state, regardless of distance—even across galaxies. Einstein called this “spooky action at a distance.” This principle drives technologies like quantum imaging, where entangled photons create images without the imaging device directly observing the object. The Mixed Reality experience brings entanglement to life through artistic representations. Two coupled windows frame the visitor wearing the headset, connected by shifting and dancing forms that symbolise entangled particles, where the properties in one mirror the opposite properties in the other.

Chapter 2: Quantum Probability
Unlike classical physics, quantum physics reveals a world of uncertainty. Particles do not have a single, definite position, but exist in a “cloud” of probabilities, only gaining a definite position when observed. This principle underpins quantum cryptography, which offers unbreakable security. The Mixed Reality sculpture represents this concept through a cloud of possibilities that mimic probability densities. The user is invited to use their hand as a lens to locate where a particle “collapses” into existence.

Chapter 3: Quantum Tunnelling
Quantum particles can pass through barriers that, according to the laws of classical physics, they shouldn’t thanks to their probability waves that extend beyond the barrier. This means that even if a particle doesn’t have enough energy to pass through a barrier, classically, there is still a chance it can “tunnel” through to the other side. This phenomenon enables technologies like scanning tunnelling microscopy, which maps surfaces at the atomic level. The Mixed Reality experience sculpture enables an intuitive understanding of this principle. It represents particles — using cloth-dynamics as its artistic language to capture their wave-like nature – tunnelling through a barrier, including the bodies of visitors interacting with the phenomenon.