Funky String Fings ‑ UV Event Decor

Funky String Fings and their sister backdrops are created exclusively by me using the ancient principles of Sacred Geometry, with only a pencil, ruler and compass, using U.V. reactive string and a full spectrum of U.V. paint.

My Conclusions

This has been a long time coming...

Initially I had one fundamental problem - how to accurately represent a 3-dimensional, immersive analogue experience into a 2-dimensional, whilst having zero tech skills... then it became care of an elderly relative, covid and then the very sad corporatisation and loss of so many events. Space, the ebb and flow of universal divine inspiration... P.R. has been Personal Responsibility, I.T. is Intuitive Technology and now, my A.I. Analogue + Independent.

'Twas a long time coming... it has taken many years and I trust you have enjoyed this ramble through some of the journey thus far. I am delighted to be able to offer a unique and absorbing experience, where a skyscape of stars and rainbows simultaneously radiate colour and light into the dark depths of night whilst geometric illuminations below, appear to rise from the earth or, perhaps, drop form the sky?

Full respect and due credit to Neil  German for catapulting me into cyberspace with oodles of patience and artistic empathy. His creative tech skills have enabled my light to spread potentially around our globe! Beyond that, all I wish for is the opportunity to create more Funky String Fings installations where ever they're desired.

Particular credits are also due to Ben at Give and the crew, all the Scots people at pre-corporate Belladrum, Jame in the Covert Woods and Orbital for their help and beautiful stretch canopy, the artist at Shambala who created the flashing mask and where lime trees were far from ideal! Freddie at S.G.P. and the many, many others who have encouraged me and my light to shine - THANK YOU!

Try checking out The Playground below...

Technical Details

Ideally installations require minimal, or no residual light; unlike the old skool black lights they operate at a frequency far safer for our eyesight and provide ample residual light themselves, to softly illuminate woodland areas, green or magenta uplighting into adjacent trees, but not too close to trees I am using works very well. In enclosed spaces, from tents to halls, lasers, oil wheel projectors and Gobo light all complement the décor. But not video projections, or masses of other lights. Co-ordinating with light and power engineers before arrival is always helpful.

In any situation - generator or mains power supply - I use less than 1kw of power for all 16 U.V. floodlights weighing 2.5kg each, which along with leads etc are PAT tested IP65. Backdrops and string sculptures are waterproof and hung in places that only extreme wind could damage, in such circumstances backdrops are rolled up onto their top horizontal pole and released and repegged at the appropriate time. A small Scorpion laser is also available.

There are 26 backdrops ranging in size from approximately 2 to 3 meters square and two rectangular ones. Around 30 string sculptures and numerous comets to be used in suitable places.

The environment needs to be practicably riggable with 2 and 3mm steel cable, tensioned by hand to ensure stable hanging at a height of about 4 meters. Stars and spheres ranging in size from 70cm to 95cm top to bottom, the DNA spiral (which isn't strictly string) is roughly 1.5 meters, needs to be higher. Nothing weighs more than 750 grams.

How long does it take?
A one night event in a home, hall or club it depends on the size, midday is a good time for larger venues. For smaller ones between 2 and 3pm it will take between 4 and 8 hours. If you only require 4 or 5 stars and 7 or 8 backdrops I can use my car which is easier, this includes lights.

For festivals I can do a 3 day build and 1 day break, dependant on weather. Up to a 12 day build if you have capacity and want nearly all of what you have seen. Breaking this takes 3 or 4 days, again weather dependant.

Costs
It depends how much you require, the distance from east Cornwall, the size of the event and its ethos. Locally for a party or club £100 minimum, if you want everything I have and it's as far away as north Scotland, up to £2.7k. Ultimately, price is negotiable.

Finally
Last but not least I have a classic Mercedes 208 van called SYD and caravan in which I transport the gear in and reside in for the duration of the event. Ideally I would park up as close to the installation as possible, and have access to power as I cook for myself and need it to power to my fridge! However, I do consider myself lucky if that is possible.

I can provide references if required.

If you've read this far I trust you may be interested in my services, or even if you aren't please feel free to get in touch and have a chat. Au revoir!