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March 31, 2025

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Case Study: The Impact of Impulse at Des Moines Performing Arts in Iowa, USA

Impulse during its activation, april 18 2024 © Paris Barraza/The Register

The Impulse art installation is a creation by Lateral Office and CS Design. This work draws on concepts from serialism—a technique based on the repetition and variation of musical elements—to create areas of intensity and calm. Impulsion is an invitation to play, laugh, interact, and collectively create an experience of joy and sharing.

This study highlights the tangible results and positive impacts of its deployment during the Des Moines Performing Arts event in Des Moines, Iowa.

An Engaging and Participatory Installation

Impulse was designed to:

  • Enhance public spaces by offering an interactive sound and light experience.

  • Generate economic benefits for local businesses by increasing foot traffic in the area it occupies.

  • Provide a collective creative experience that fosters collaboration among participants.

  • Offer a playground that brings together people of all ages.

“Immersive theater and public art are two sides of the same coin and we are thrilled to present Impulse as part of our free outdoor family events. It will be wonderful to see those young and young at heart become directors of their own experience” — Brooke Bridenstine, Programming Coordinator for Des Moines Performing Arts.

Results and Public Engagement at Des Moines performing Arts

Impulse was exhibited from April 18th to May  19th, 2024 : 

46000 people visited the installation over the course of four weeks, according to pedestrian traffic data.

Gallery

Impulse activation in Des Moines © Paris Barraza/The Register

Economic benefits

The presentation of Impulse in Des Moines aimed to meet concrete objectives:

  • Create a welcoming district through a pedestrian-friendly urban design and dynamic gathering spaces.

  • Promote the arts by supporting accessible events and installations that enrich the collective experience.

  • Develop an attractive market for investment by implementing initiatives that foster local economic growth.

  • Transform the city into a vibrant outdoor space by designing lively public areas that encourage social interaction and outdoor recreation.

“This activation adds to the energy and vibrancy of our region’s Downtown. We encourage residents, employees and visitors to create memories by experiencing this installation in Downtown Des Moines,” said Tiffany Tauscheck, President & CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “Activations such as Impulse add welcome surprises, which help draw more people to discover our city’s amenities while supporting local restaurants and attractions. This strategy is in direct alignment with the Downtown DSM: Future Forward Vision Plan & Action Plan.”

Explore the interactive installations catalog from QDSinternational