Slava Romanov Data Artist & Multimedia Developer

Sutum Technical Rider

Source: Sutum Technical Rider.pdf
Extraction date: 18.04.2026
Note: extracted from PDF and manually normalized where the PDF text flow collapsed.

Introductory Description

Sutum (2024)

Goldstuecke, Gelsenkirchen. Photo: Lars Gonikman

Technical Rider

Sutum is a mixed media installation that reflects on the impermanence of laws, norms, and their interpretations. Utilizing an ultraviolet laser and photochromic pigments, the artwork creates ephemeral images of ancient laws on a stone surface that gradually disappear, symbolizing the fragility and mutability of human constructs.

The project utilizes a combination of technologies and materials:

• Galvanometer scanner: a self-assembled combination of a galvanometer and a 405 nm low-power focused laser, based on a programmed microcontroller, produces both immediate and gradually evolving visual forms.
• Photochromic pigments: the stone surface is treated with pigments that react to UV radiation.

Dimensions / Duration

• Installation footprint: 250 x 150 x 170 cm
• Packed dimensions:
• 60 x 40 x 40 cm Eurobox (estimated mass: 20 kg)
• 50 x 50 x 15 cm cardboard box with a stone (estimated mass: 12 kg)
• 120 cm long roll of underlying treated paper
• Duration of projection: variable, cycles between 4-5 minutes per cycle (total 3 cycles), depending on choreography settings
• Project scaling: adaptable upon consultation

Goldstuecke, Gelsenkirchen. Photo: Jennifer Braun

Spatial Requirements

• Minimum space required: 2.5 x 4 m (10 m2)
• Environment: a completely dark room (blackout) is mandatory for focusing the light on photochrome-coated stone
• Lighting: two narrow-angle LED spotlights are required to highlight the surface
• These spotlights are recommended to be provided by the venue or bought specifically for the venue
• Reducing ambient light from external sources is essential
• Surface preparation: stone and paper / fabric coated with photochromic foil and pigments is made by artist
• The underlying paper / fabric is to be coated on site
• Specific recommendations can be provided for alternative materials
• Flooring: stable, clean, and free of reflective surfaces to prevent light diffusion is essential
• Environmental conditions: the space should be free from high humidity and dirt, to ensure the operation of 12v non-waterproof electronic equipment connected to a 220v power supply, and a PC
• Regarding the room aesthetics, the author seeks to create an atmosphere of a found ancient artifact, reminding of an excavation site, or an abandoned building
• Therefore, the normal dust of an abandoned space can be present in the room

Technical Requirements (Provided by Exhibition / Venue)

• Mains power: 220v / 50hz / max 3A, Schuko plug system
• Power extension in dark color with at least 5 plugs
• The extension is needed for light sources, a laser device, PC and a service monitor
• Maximum distance of plugs from artwork is 4 m
• Box for masking the PC near the artwork, can be located up to 5 m from the artwork
• Laser Safety Officer review is recommended for installation
• The previously agreed power of the laser 405 nm module used in the installation was 20 mW, with a pointer moving over the non-glossy surface of the stone and the underlying paper
• Separate power extension with a visible on/off indication is needed for the laser device as a safety measure
• Cut of a luminescent tape is needed for limiting the access to the stone

Components Provided by the Artist

• Laser projection device utilizing 405 nm 20 mW laser module, 220v powered, with USB 2.0 interface, with integrated galvo and microcontroller
• Tripod for the laser and one of light sources, with security balance
• Small tripod for the second light source
• Alternative light positioning can be discussed
• Charging cables, adapters and a USB-extension
• M-ITX PC with Windows and TouchDesigner on board for controlling the projection choreography
• Portable monitor, mouse, keyboard
• Flat stone coated with photochromic foil
• Roll of paper or fabric to put the stone on

Sound

The artwork does not include sound and can be installed relatively close to artworks utilizing sound, though not very loud.

Lighting

• Highlighting the surface requires two adjustable LED spots with narrow focus
• Positions should avoid casting shadows on the laser path or causing unnecessary reflections

Goldstuecke, Gelsenkirchen. Photo: Slava Romanov

Safety of the Artwork On-site

1. 405 nm laser module utilizes 20 mW power, and is classified as 3B, though at its lower range. It requires controlled conditions to prevent accidental exposure, and the assistance of an LSO is recommended. Alternative powered modules can be provided upon testing and discussion.
2. Signage and restricted access to the area recommended during setup.
3. The controlling PC should be hidden and held inaccessible for the visitors.
4. Presence of a mediator on-site is highly recommended.

Transport Requirements

1. The artwork will be delivered in a standard plastic Eurobox (60 x 40 x 40 cm) with a lid, together with other 2 boxes.
2. The artwork is fragile and must be handled with care. Necessary safety measures for transportation will be provided by the artist.

Insurance Price

• UV Laser and components: EUR 3000
• Coated surfaces: EUR 1000
• Packaging: EUR 200
• Total: EUR 4200

Setup / Installation

• Installation time: 12 hours
• The artist will provide on-site installation
• Assistance may be required for preparing the space, such as darkening light sources and enclosing doorways with Molton

Maintenance

Regular maintenance includes:

1. Switching artwork on and off consists of basic steps:
   • switching on the light sources
   • switching on the laser module
   • turning on the PC by pressing a button on it
2. The PC will be turned off automatically at the predefined time, with a need to switch off the equipment from the previous steps manually.