Echoes of Memory — Realization

The Gandhi Sculpture Garden, originally conceived as a monumental pathway retracing the defining moments of the life of Mahatma Gandhi, unfolds across nineteen stepped terraces, punctuated by pools and fountains, leading toward an open-air amphitheater. While the landscape infrastructure has been fully realized, the permanent sculptures and the planted perimeter along the central axis were, at the time of inauguration, still awaiting implementation.

Atelier dada’s intervention therefore took the form of a prefigurative gesture. Rather than compensating for the absence of the artworks, the lighting design anticipates their future presence by shaping a luminous pathway capable of revealing the sculptures to come, while already establishing a calm and contemplative atmosphere.

The garden’s central axis, designed to host events and gatherings, is punctuated with modular multi-luminaire poles, adaptable and scalable, ready to illuminate each sculpture once installed. Secondary paths are treated with a softer, more subdued lighting ambiance, encouraging a slow, meditative walk conducive to reflection and quiet presence.

This anticipatory installation reflects a precise vision of the nocturnal landscape, where every point of light is carefully calibrated to serve the future visitor experience, while respecting the technical and administrative constraints of the site. Light sources positioned at the intended sculpture locations ensure a seamless and harmonious integration of the artworks once they are in place, without visual disruption.

The project also demonstrates Atelier dada’s ability to address the specific challenges of lighting design in demanding contexts, where equipment sourcing and selection often require adaptability and rigor. This approach was acknowledged by the authorities, who chose to extend the collaboration into Phase 2C of the project, granting greater freedom in fixture selection to ensure fidelity to the original conceptual intentions.

Although the sculptures are not yet present, this luminous groundwork establishes the foundation for a pathway shaped by memory and respect, where each future artwork will naturally find its place under a light conceived with patience, clarity and meaning.