Burns Lane Cloud: How Art and Technology Transformed a Singleton Alley

In a creative effort to breathe new life into public spaces, the Singleton Living Laneways project brought together FASTLab, Singleton Shire Council, and Art Thinking. Among its most captivating installations was Burns Lane Cloud, a dazzling fusion of art and technology that turned a quiet alley into a vibrant community hub.

Designed by FASTLab artist Ralph Kenke, Burns Lane Cloud reimagined a narrow lane in Singleton with an ethereal, interactive canopy. The installation featured 100 helium-filled latex balloons suspended three meters above the ground, creating a dreamlike cloud effect. But this was no ordinary art piece—embedded proximity sensors allowed the balloons to respond to movement, with LED lights inside shifting colors as people walked beneath them.

The project wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a catalyst for conversation. By temporarily closing Burns Lane to cars, the installation sparked a lively debate about the value of pedestrian-friendly spaces in Singleton. Residents were invited to experience their town in a new way, interacting with the artwork and rethinking how public spaces could be used.

Performers celebrate the launch of 'Burns Lane Cloud, part of the Singleton Living laneways program

The impact of Burns Lane Cloud extended far beyond Singleton. The installation garnered critical acclaim, winning three Australian Graphic Design Association Awards in categories including Multi-sensory Installations, Spatial Design, and Technological Innovation. These accolades underscored the project’s success in blending art, technology, and community engagement to create something truly transformative.

More than just a temporary installation, Burns Lane Cloud left a lasting impression. It demonstrated how creative solutions can reimagine public spaces, foster community pride, and inspire residents to envision new possibilities for their town’s future. By turning an ordinary lane into a shared experience, the project reminded everyone that even the most overlooked spaces can become places of connection and wonder.

The Singleton Living Laneways project was an initiative aimed at revitalizing public spaces in Singleton, NSW. Funded by the NSW Government's Streets as Shared Spaces grant program, the project sought to reconnect the community with local businesses, generate a sense of local identity, and bring much-needed reactivation to Singleton's town center. Through a series of engaging and high-impact activations, the project celebrated Singleton's creative life and identity, transforming under-utilized laneways into vibrant public spaces