At Make, we’re passionate about supporting bold, innovative artistic endeavors, and our latest Made by Make commission is no exception. We are proud to have played a part in bringing Subterranean Elevator to life—an immersive audiovisual installation by acclaimed artist Di Mainstone. This extraordinary experience, opening at Birkenhead’s Williamson Art Gallery & Museum, was constructed in collaboration with Make residents Xyleia, bringing together creative minds and specialist makers to realise Mainstone’s ambitious vision.
Exploring the Depths: The Concept Behind Subterranean Elevator
Subterranean Elevator invites visitors into a hypnotic journey, both beneath the earth and into the subconscious mind. On stepping into a dark, elevator-shaped environment, visitors will find themselves surrounded by mesmerising sounds and projections that simulate a descent into the soil’s hidden layers. With soft, earth-like textures underfoot, the space becomes a multi-sensory experience—one that encourages deep contemplation about our planet and our place within it.
As Mainstone describes, the work blends Folk Horror aesthetics with audiovisual mesmerism, conjuring an underground world where surreal creatures flourish and fleeting thoughts intertwine with neural pathways. This immersive experience—what Mainstone calls “Subnosis”—offers a poetic, dreamlike exploration of biodiversity, interconnectedness, and the emotional dimensions of the climate crisis.
Made by Make: The Role of Xyleia
A key part of bringing Subterranean Elevator to life was our collaboration with Make residents, Xyleia, a team of talented makers who worked meticulously to construct the physical installation. From designing and fabricating the structure to ensuring the tactile and immersive elements function seamlessly, Xyleia’s craftsmanship has been instrumental in shaping the final experience. This project embodies what Made by Make is all about—providing artists with access to the expertise and facilities needed to push creative boundaries.
A Legacy of Groundbreaking Work
Di Mainstone’s work has long bridged the gap between art, science, and technology. Her past projects include:
- Time Bascule, an award-winning climate-inspired film celebrating Tower Bridge’s 125th anniversary.
- Human Harp, a digital musical device that transforms suspension bridges into playable instruments.
- Time Mirror, an interactive kaleidoscope originally installed at Lake Windermere and now housed at Grizedale Sculpture Park.
Her work has captivated audiences at major cultural institutions worldwide, from the Design Museum and V&A to the Cannes Film Festival and the National Portrait Gallery.
Experience Subterranean Elevator
This remarkable installation will be open to visitors at Williamson Art Gallery & Museum from 14th February – 20th December 2025. We’re thrilled to have played a role in making this visionary project a reality, and we can’t wait for audiences to step inside and explore the depths of Subterranean Elevator for themselves.
Kirsten, Made by Make’s Artistic Director, shared her excitement about the project: “Subterranean Elevator is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and the incredible talent within our Make community. It’s been inspiring to see Di Mainstone’s vision come to life with the help of Xyleia and lots of other interdisciplinary specialists, and we’re proud to support such an immersive and thought-provoking work.”
Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes insights from Make and Xyleia on the making of this unforgettable experience!
