Company Updates
ARS Gràcia: When the Barcelona Metro Beats with Art
A Centenary Challenge, a Revolutionary Response
On the occasion of the Centenary of the Barcelona Metro, TMBinnova, Bit Habitat and the Barcelona Music Lab Foundation launched an unprecedented challenge: to transform the longest and most iconic corridor in the network, at Passeig de Gràcia station, into an experience that would surprise millions of users. A 237-metre tunnel, as busy as it is controversial, was calling for a new life.
Publication date
2026-03-24
Artificia Wins the Challenge and Reinvents the Space
The winning proposal among 52 entries was ARS Gràcia by Artificia, transforming a 35-metre section into a unique sensory environment: a space that breathes, reacts, and creates music and visuals in real time, driven by passenger movement. A living installation blending human talent with algorithmic capability to redefine how the metro is experienced.
The pilot phase, running from December 2025 to March 2026, has demonstrated the potential of this pioneering concept: an environment where every step becomes a soundtrack and every gesture triggers a unique visual composition.
A Musical Experience that Blends Worlds
ARS Gràcia merges the best of two worlds: the artistic sensitivity of musicians and the creative power of artificial intelligence. Through the ARS system, the installation generates adaptive audiovisual compositions that respond to the flow of people, turning a daily commute into an immersive and emotional experience.
A Unique Stage for Metro Musicians
The project not only reimagines the space but also turns it into a talent showcase. The ARS STAGE—equipped with an LED screen, visual technology and a plug & play sound system—offers musicians from AMUC professional conditions to elevate their performances and connect with audiences in entirely new ways.
Ecler: The Technology Partner Behind the Experience
Working alongside audiovisual integrator Belaudire, Ecler provided the full sound system, amplification and control:
Loudspeaker Systems: Designed to evenly distribute AI-generated sound throughout the corridor and power the ARS STAGE. A combination of NIMBO-24 (stage) and eMOTUS5 (support areas) met the project’s acoustic requirements.
Amplification & Control: Ensuring precise sound management in a challenging metro tunnel environment, maintaining artistic impact without disturbing commuters. This is handled by a VIDA- 24Q amplifier with remote control and cloud monitoring capabilities.
With this collaboration, the Barcelona Metro becomes a living laboratory where technology, art and citizens converge.