The North Carolina Arboretum Winter Lights exhibition is an annual tradition cherished by visitors for its dazzling displays and enchanting atmosphere. This year, the event boasts an extraordinary addition—an interactive light installation designed by Motivo’s talented electrical engineer and the creative force behind Freakylamps, William Kennedy. Known for his innovative approach to combining art, technology, and engineering, William’s creation, the Railtronic Kaleidoscope, adds a unique and playful dimension to this beloved seasonal event.
Railtronic Kaleidoscope
Located in the Education Center Plaza in the arboretum, this installation is not your average holiday light display. Spanning five handrails—four at the steps and one ADA-accessible railing—this interactive art piece responds to touch with dazzling light effects. Each handrail features sensors that light up corresponding LED strips in a festive box mounted underneath the handrails, with the experience becoming increasingly dynamic and vibrant as more people participate.
William's vision for the project stems from his fascination with making the mundane magical. "The idea was to take something people usually overlook—like a handrail—and transform it into something that invites interaction and joy," he explains. Inspired by the natural beauty of the arboretum and the spirit of the holidays, the installation integrates with the plaza's lit trees, creating a cohesive and immersive visual experience.
Each rail is embedded with tactile sensors and LEDs that respond to touch, creating waves of vibrant light. The more people interact with the handrails, the more dynamic and colorful the display becomes, transforming the space into a lively, ever-changing canvas of light and motion.
The project also integrates the arboretum’s natural beauty, lighting up surrounding trees and the plaza in response to interactions. “It was important to me to incorporate the existing environment,” says William. “The trees, the plaza—they’re part of the story.”
Check Out Railtronic Kaleidoscope in Action
The Journey Behind the Lights
The creation of Railtronic Kaleidoscope was no small feat. The most significant challenge was developing reliable touch-sensitive technology for the handrails—a task that took months of experimentation. With the support of his colleagues at Motivo and an incredible team of artists, fabricators, and engineers, William navigated hurdles in sensor design, prototyping, and installation logistics. From waterproofing electronics to troubleshooting networks, every detail was meticulously planned and executed.
The installation holds special significance this year, as Asheville recently faced the aftermath of a devastating hurricane. For William, the project became more than just an artistic endeavor—it was a way to bring light and joy back to the community. The journey from concept to installation was as rewarding as the final product.
“Seeing visitors’ reactions and their excitement to engage with Railtronic, especially after such a tough time, made all the stress and challenges worth it.”
The Creative Mind
William's path to becoming an ace in interactive art and engineering is as unique as his creations. Stemming from his days as a full-time touring musician and then as a lampsmith in Athens, Georgia, he combined his love for music, art, and technology into a career that bridges creativity and innovation. His passion lies in inspiring others to explore their creativity, often using unconventional materials and techniques. "You don’t need perfection to create something amazing. Just start tinkering, and don’t overthink it."
Experience Railtronic
Railtronic Kaleidoscope is open to the public every evening from 6 PM to 10 PM, now through January 5, 2025. If you’re in the Asheville area, don’t miss the opportunity to experience this extraordinary installation and witness the magic of connection and creativity this holiday season.