It’s only on for another fortnight, so finally last weekend we decided to tackle the huge crowds flocking to the acclaimed Rain Room installation at the Barbican Centre.
The piece comes from the Random International collective, the idea that participants can control the rain through their movement. This works through 3D modelling and motion sensors, aiming to provide the experience of moving through a hundred square feet of rain without getting wet.
Keen to make the most of our Sunday we arrived at opening time; unfortunately so did everyone else. We joined the back of the four-hour queue, the normal wait during peak time. We were told that one punter offered a £50 bribe to jump the line and was flatly refused. So we nestled down with our books.
Four hours later – the things we do for these exhibitions! – it was our turn. The installation sits at the end of The Curve, a long thin exhibition hall. Upon entering, there’s a short description of the exhibition and the technology that makes the device work.
Moisture bristles the skin and the sound of rain fills the space as visitors are struck by dramatic lighting illuminating the downpour. There’s plenty of shuffling in and out as people attempt to outwit the apparatus.
We joined a short queue and watched participants taken over by a child-like fascination. For us their reactions were half the fun. The brief wait also gave us a chance to admire the mechanics of the gadgetry. It’s made up of tiny sprinklers and motion sensors which sit on a contraption that hangs from the ceiling, shooting on and off as people wander through. It’s approximately six by sixteen metres and limited to ten people at a time, allowing each intimately to engage with the fitting and find its limitations.
Finally, our turn. Walking through slowly from one end to the other it was possible to stay dry and part the downfall as it rained inches away from us. This was not the typical experience however, rather a half second lag seemed to be the norm as motion sensors reacted to our presence. This meant we got a little wet.
Is it worth it? Yes. The Rain Room is a wonderfully interactive experience that engages the senses. I’d advise that for those prepared to do so put in extra effort, as it’s a good bet to arrive a couple of hours before opening time. And then enjoy: rain hasn’t been this much fun in London for years.
Rain Room at the Barbican Closes March 3. Admission free.
