Reimagining Genius Loci
When I walk the streets of a city unfamiliar to me, I sense an invisible presence—what the ancient Romans called genius loci, the guardian spirit of every place. In classical understanding, genius loci was the protective deity embodying the unique atmosphere and energy of a location. 

But what does "the spirit of place" mean today, in our increasingly mobile and digital world? As an immigrant and artist, I explore here, from a personal perspective, the contemporary reimagining of genius loci amidst globalization, migration, and cultural hybridity.
Globalization, Migration, and the New Spirit of Place
In Roman mythology, genius loci was literally a guardian spirit affecting people and events within its domain. By the 18th century, the term encapsulated the unique character of each location. Architect Christian Norberg-Schulz argued that architects should reveal the genius loci of each place, helping spaces realize their distinct identities. He noted, "Respecting genius loci doesn't mean replicating old models, but constantly interpreting and renewing the identity of a place."
Today, globalization challenges the traditional concept of genius loci. Anthropologist Marc Augé speaks of "non-places" like airports and malls—anonymous spaces lacking distinct character. Yet migration has also fostered a richer, hybrid genius loci. As cultures mingle, each location becomes a dynamic collage of diverse influences. Europe, for instance, embraces the idea of a post-migration society where hybrid identity is the norm rather than exception.
Artists and Cultural Identity
My Project: Sand, Sound, and Cultural Mixing

Inspired by these examples, my own artistic project embodies cultural assimilation metaphorically. Imagine a platform covered with sand from various origins and colors, representing diverse cultures. Visitors add sand or touch it, triggering sensors beneath that use AI to generate sound vibrations, reshaping the sand into mixed patterns. Each interaction symbolizes the transformative effect individuals have on their surroundings, mirroring cultural integration.

Living abroad for three years, adapting to new lifestyles and social structures, I've experienced firsthand how one's identity and the genius loci mutually influence each other. Initially feeling like an outsider, I gradually sensed my voice merging into the collective chorus of my new home. This sand platform project thus reflects my journey: each colored grain symbolizes cultural identity, vibrational patterns represent community interactions, and the ongoing mixture embodies cultural fusion.
Scheme
How it works:
SAND — a layer of sand coated with metallic paint, placed on a transparent or semi-transparent platform.
VIBRATIONAL SYSTEM — a vibration mechanism under the table, capable of creating relief patterns on the sand surface through oscillations — using a subwoofer speaker.
MOTION SENSORS — motion sensors that respond to visitors' touch.
SOUND — an audio system connected to an AI that interprets touches into sound, reflecting movement or changes in the sand's relief.
LIGHT PROJECTION — a light projection system that overlays visual imagery on the sand (such as animated flows or light effects).

Conclusion: My Genius Loci

Ultimately, genius loci is not static but an ongoing, collective creation. Today's spirit of place emerges dynamically through personal interactions, enriched by cultural hybridity.


Through art, I strive to capture and shape this spirit, inviting others to reflect on our shared, evolving genius loci. After all, genius loci teaches us that home isn't merely a place, but a continual process—one we actively create together.