Leva, a creative engineering company specialising in kinetic installations, interactive exhibits and bespoke mechatronic systems, will create two permanent installations for The Whale's new visitor experience, scheduled to open in Andenes, Norway, in 2027.
Designed by architects Dorte Mandrup, The Whale aims to become a landmark hub where architecture, science, art, and technology converge to promote a greater understanding of whales, the ocean, and humanity's connection to nature.
The Whale is set to open in Andenes, Norway, in 2027Image credit Dorte Mandrup/Mir, Bergen
Leva was commissioned by The Whale to create two custom installations that blend creative engineering, tailored mechatronics, and digital tech to turn scientific stories into immersive spatial experiences.
Participating as part of the broader project team, the Italian firm will collaborate with Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA) and Tamschick Media + Space (TMS), who are responsible for the exhibition design.
The team combines expertise in exhibition and media design, spatial storytelling, and creative engineering.
Bringing the content to life
Leva’s first installation highlights the incredible diversity of whale species across the world's oceans with a large-scale kinetic display.
Showcasing original illustrations by acclaimed nature and scientific artist Rachel Ivanyi, the setup combines physical motion with thoughtfully selected visuals, encouraging visitors to explore the richness of whale life in an engaging, approachable way.
Leva's installations will use use physical space, movement, and design to engage visitors in the subject matterImage credit The Whale
The second installation offers a more reflective perspective by highlighting the history of industrial whaling and its effects on whale populations.
Using scientific research and historical data, it employs light, physical forms, and spatial choreography to prompt reflection on the relationship between humans and the marine environment.
Although the specifics of both installations will be disclosed later, their core principle is to use physical space, movement, and design to deepen understanding and engage visitors. Engineering, media, and visual storytelling are being combined into a unified language, with technology subtly backing the main narrative.
A whale-watching hub
“There is a sea in Norway where the water is so deep, and so close to the shore, with such perfect conditions for whales to live, that it has become one of the world's most extraordinary whale-watching spots," says Matteo Mosca, CEO & co-founder, Leva
"When Tim Ventimiglia from RAA told me this over dinner, I already had goosebumps. Imagine how I felt when LEVA was brought in to build two installations that tell the stories of these extraordinary animals.
"We’re so honored to contribute to this ambitious project, alongside such a talented team of biologists, artists, and architects.”
The Whale believes museums shouold be places where knowledge is experienced and where visitors are moved emotionallyImage credit The Whale
Hanne Strager, director of exhibitions, The Whale, adds: “Museums should not simply be places where information is presented. They should be places where knowledge is experienced and where visitors are moved emotionally.
"Technology should never become the story, but it can help make the story unforgettable. Some of the most powerful experiences are not digital at all, but physical and mechanical, allowing visitors to see patterns, relationships and change unfold before their eyes.
"At The Whale, we are exploring new ways of making complex scientific data and ideas intuitive and visually compelling, bringing together artists from all over the World, the designers from RAA and technical specialists from LEVA to create entirely new forms of storytelling.”
Situated in Andenes, a leading whale-watching location worldwide, The Whale aspires to serve as an international hub for learning, exploration, and discussions on whales and ocean conservation.
For Leva, this collaboration marks another milestone in expanding its portfolio of permanent interactive installations and key partnerships, where customised engineering and spatial storytelling combine to turn complex knowledge into memorable shared experiences.
