One variation of system includes a set of a brixel units and a primary controller configured to distribute a set of actuation routines to the set of brixel units, each brixel unit including: a chassis including a motor mount and a arm extending outwardly from the motor mount and defining a drive post mount opposite the motor mount; a motor coupled to the motor mount; a drive post arranged on the drive post mount and driven by the motor; a pixel element mounted to and configured to rotate with the drive post and including a first face defining a first visual characteristic and a second face defining a second visual characteristic; and a local controller configured to store an actuation routine and to drive the motor to locate the pixel element over a sequence of angular positions, relative to the arm, defined by the actuation routine.