Chatty Parrots brings colour and interaction to Laikunlava – test the interactive video work on 27 November

In a recent city survey, Tampere residents expressed that Kirjastopuisto sometimes feels restless, which can create a sense of insecurity for passersby. The City of Tampere wants to improve the comfort of the area and bring a warmer atmosphere to the evenings.

This led to the idea of the Chatty Parrots video installation, designed to enliven the surroundings of the stage during the winter season. The interactive artwork is a rare sight in an urban environment: it reacts to people’s movements and brings joy and surprise to the area. In the Chatty Parrots installation, three talking parrots come to life and start chatting when someone approaches them. When no one is near Laikunlava, the parrots sleep. The birdcage-like structure of Laikunlava supports the concept of the piece.

Chatty Parrots combines technology and new experiences

– Chatty Parrots is an example of how bold and innovative technological solutions can transform urban spaces. By combining technology and experience, we bring joy, light, and moments of togetherness to the darkest time of the year, says Dr. Anniina Autero, Development Manager at the City of Tampere.

The installation will be on display on Thursday, November 27, from 4 PM to 9 PM. This is a one-night test, based on which a possible permanent implementation will be evaluated. During the event, the city will collect feedback from area users and pre-selected target groups. The installation is part of the Horizon Europe-funded WeGenerate project.

Design and sound: WSP Finland Oy, Annukka Larsen, Mia Erlin, and Antti Kalliomäki 

Animated parrots: Energia VFX Oy, Santeri Ojala 

Technical implementation: Mixa Oy, Mikko Kiviharju and Niko Tiainen 

Commissioned by: City of Tampere, Competitiveness and Innovation 

Contact: City of Tampere, Anniina Autero