DOUBLE REALITY™ SYSTEM

The DOUBLE REALITY™ system understands light not as an effect, but as a material. Time is not a backdrop, but an active component of perception. Each artwork exists in more than one state — not through alteration of the object, but through changing conditions. What becomes visible is not a staging, but presence.

NOTES ON THE LIGHT SYSTEM

The DOUBLE REALITY™ Light System

Photoluminescence and nocturnal transformation
Each K-NY artwork integrates photoluminescence — a material-based technology that stores light energy and releases it gradually as visible luminosity.The artwork absorbs light and reappears in darkness as a second reality. This nocturnal presence is not an effect but an intrinsic part of the material structure.

Light sources and charging
For maximum luminosity, cool white light sources are recommended, particularly LED spots in the range of approximately 5,000 to 6,500 Kelvin. These contain the blue light components required to efficiently saturate the photoluminescent pigments.

Warm, yellow-toned light creates atmosphere but charges the system more slowly and with reduced intensity.

Charging duration
An illumination period of approximately 30 to 45 minutes at a light level of around 500 to 1,000 lux is sufficient to fully activate the system. This corresponds roughly to the duration of a relaxed dinner or time spent in the space. After this phase, the artwork is prepared for the night.

Light intensity and measurement
The light level can be easily verified using standard lux meter apps available for smartphones. Readings between 500 and 1,000 lux at the artwork surface allow the full expression of the DOUBLE REALITY™.

Lower light levels
Even at lower illumination levels — for example around 200 lux — the light effect remains active. In this case, the glow appears more subtle and restrained.

For the full DOUBLE REALITY™ as presented on the website, positioning the light source closer to the artwork or using a higher-lumen light source is recommended. A short phase of intensified illumination is sufficient to prepare the artwork for many hours.

Direct sunlight
Like any high-quality artwork, a K-NY piece should be protected from permanent direct sunlight. UV radiation can be aggressive to pigments and materials over time. Controlled, indirect lighting or targeted spot illumination is therefore recommended for long-term preservation.

Light during the night
Once fully charged, the artwork does not require continuous lighting. The luminosity is strongest during the initial phase and then transitions into a calm, atmospheric afterglow. Depending on the darkness of the space, this presence can remain perceptible for many hours.

Service note
To verify the lighting conditions at the installation site, standard lux meter apps may be used. Upon request, we are happy to support architects, designers, or lighting planners in fine-tuning the lighting setup.

ARCHITECT / DESIGNER INFORMATION

This section provides professional reference material for architects, interior designers, curators, and collectors. The documents below offer technical and spatial orientation for working with K-NY artworks and the DOUBLE REALITY™ system.

The DOUBLE REALITY™ system is not an effect — it is a spatial principle.
It operates at the intersection of light, time, and material presence.

This information is provided for architects, interior designers, curators, and professional clients who require a clear understanding of the technical and spatial behavior of K-NY artworks.

It outlines the passive light architecture, installation context, and material logic that define the DOUBLE REALITY™ system across all works.

The document does not explain the artwork.
It provides orientation — without interfering with perception.

Below you will find the official Architect / Designer Information available for download.

SYSTEM ADC

SYSTEM ADC is a dedicated reference space for architects, designers, and collectors. It provides structured access to system-related information, spatial considerations, and professional documentation within the K-NY framework.

The artwork does not change. The conditions do.
Light reveals what time allows.

K-NY  SPEAKS DIRECTLY.

No agents. No filters.
If a work caught your attention,
say which one — and why.
The dialogue begins only
when the intent is clear.

STUDIO (Europe)

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ADDRESS

KIÉRA NAGY  / K-NY Studio
Heisinger Str. 320
45259 Essen, Germany

OPEN HOURS

Studio visits by appointment only.

INFORMATION

Prices exclude VAT, shipping, and insurance.
Original artworks by Kiéra Nagy (K-NY) are subject to the reduced VAT rate of 7 % under German tax law (§ 12 Abs. 2 Nr. 1 UStG and Annex 2).
For exports outside the EU, VAT does not apply.
© Kiéra Nagy / K-NY Art Label –
All rights reserved.