A few nights ago, walking home with Mia and Hoyun from dinner, we came across a light display of various holiday related images projected on the sidewalk of Union Square. As we were walking through it, I asked out loud, "Hey, is that interactive?"

As it turns out, it was. The installation is titled "Bright Nights" and is a joint venture between Target and designer, Tord Boontje. The images cast from white and red lights slowly float randomly on the ground. However, as you walk, they "shoot off' if you get too close.

As reported elsewhere, dogs are intrigued but slightly afraid of the installation, which we witnessed ourselves.

What is most impressive about this piece is that interaction is extremely satisfying. The motion of the images is quite smooth. As they scurry off in different directions, the motion maintains an organic quality. My guess is that motion sensors are getting better and cheaper and also that improvements in computer processors allow Boontje to create the elegant reactions and movement.

I have to give credit to Target for delivering another well thought out collaboration with a talented designer.

Bright Nights runs until Tuesday, December 26 and is open every night until 11:00 p.m.