The Unknown Land
Visitors entering the room step into a world few have ever encountered. The space is dark, and a deep, atmospheric sound fills the air — distant, almost foreboding. This is The Unknown Land, a permanent installation at the University Museum, inspired by the fact that more than 90% of the deep sea remains unexplored. Here, visitors can discover the creatures and landscapes of this mysterious realm, many of which have never been seen by human eyes.
By combining science, art, and cutting-edge technology, the installation takes visitors on an expedition to the ocean’s darkest depths. Volcanoes erupt, bioluminescent jellyfish drift by, and black smokers spew hot clouds from the ocean floor. Visitors can see, touch, and explore this world with all their senses.
Through ROV footage, lighting, and interactive elements, the deep sea’s microcosm comes to life — bacteria, amphipods, tube worms, and a dancing dumbo octopus emerge from the darkness. The room blends film, objects, and physical interaction, allowing us to experience the unknown up close.
“Sølve Jozeph Westli’s ability to balance creativity with technical precision is truly exceptional. He transformed complex research material into visual and interactive content that not only engaged the audience but also elevated the quality of the exhibitions to a new level.”
Lars Holm
Lead Exhibition Designer in the Museum project
The Story Behind the Installation
Concept & Inspiration
The Unknown Land was created out of a desire to communicate the excitement and wonder of deep-sea exploration. Why does the unknown fascinate us so deeply? How can we make scientific discoveries come alive for a broad audience?
In collaboration with researchers and experts in deep-sea technology, we developed an installation that shows how advanced ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicle) and high-resolution images have opened up a new world. This world, rich with life and geological processes, remains mysterious and largely unexplored.
Collaboration
This project came to life through close collaboration with scientists, designers, and technical experts. Paul H. Amble from Designated AS served as the project leader for the entire University Museum project, while Lars Holm led the design team. The scientific foundation was expertly guided by Rolf Birger Pedersen, lead scientist from the Department of Earth Science at the University of Bergen. Academic coordinators Anders Bjerga and Anne Helene Solberg Tandberg ensured the accuracy and depth of the scientific content.
Bringing the visual elements to life, Rebel Unit took the early sketches and reference material provided by the researchers and developed the stunning CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery) and interactive projections, transforming scientific data into a captivating, immersive experience.
Avistas (formerly Bright Group) handled all the technical installations, ensuring that the design and technology seamlessly integrated into the physical space.
This collaborative effort seamlessly blended scientific exploration, design, and technology to deliver an installation that both educates and inspires.
Impact & Reception
Critical Acclaim
In an enthusiastic review from Tidsskriftet Museum, The Unknown Land is described as an installation that strikes a balance between education and experience:
“…a beautiful balance between the enlightening and the mysterious, the scientific and the artistic.”
The reviewer highlights how the installation creates an experience of the deep sea that is both scientifically accurate and sensorially overwhelming. Visitors don’t just see the deep sea — they are a part of the discovery.
The installation is praised for combining:
Visual Strength: Film projections and lighting design create an enveloping atmosphere.
Interactivity: Tactile elements allow visitors to physically engage with the installation.
Scientific Accuracy: Every element is based on real expeditions and research findings.
“…it’s not often you feel like you are standing on the edge of the unknown, but here, you truly do.”
This positive reception underscores our strength in creating experiences that are both educational and captivating.
Work with Us
Are you interested in creating installations that seamlessly integrate science, technology, and art to captivate and educate audiences?
Contact us at Aurora Vortex Studio to explore potential collaborations