Cascade. 2023

Sculptural Sound Installation

Variable dimensions (max: 10m x 6m x 0,3m). 128 channel sound, 128 speaker cones, 128 light- diffusing optic fiber, 128 lasers, 64 amplifiers, 16 audio interfaces, 3D printed modules, 2 custom PWM-DMX boards, wood, custom software.

Waterfalls emit infrasonic frequencies vital for the navigation of certain birds, which use them as a compass during their migrations. Recently, noise pollution from industrialization has threatened this journey. Cascade attempts to reproduce the infrasonic recordings of various waterfalls using small speakers incapable of emitting such low frequencies. However, their vibrations activate an optical fiber through which the sound "falls," creating a curtain of light that visualizes the sound waves, offering an alternative form of listening. This challenges human auditory and perceptual capabilities, decentering our position as “the measure of all things." Such vibration can be seen, felt, and touched with the skin, providing a multisensory experience that emphasizes interspecies connections through "feeling with" others and the body. The fibers of Cascade illuminate the viewer's position, reminding us of the critical importance of preserving the often unseen elements of nature.

Credits:

Idea, Production, Construction: Marc Vilanova
3D Design: Javi Albo, Rodrigo Waihiwe
Technical Design & Fabrication: Javi Albo
Software: Alfredo Ardia
Custom Hardware and Firmware: Wesley Lee
3D Printing: Nuno OliveiraInstallation Support: Johanna Palmeyro, Clarisa Esevich, Márcio Ferreira, Tiago Rosendo, Guillaume Côté, Myriam Lambert, Triska Sicuranzo, Matias Tolchinsky, Elsa Guerra, Alba Medinyà, Neus Masdeu, Júlia Faura, Mercè Lledós, Lisandro Marquez
Support: EMAP, Creative Europe, Avatar Center, Institut Ramon Llull, OSIC, Konvent Puntzero

Photos: Eloise Coomber, Adriano Ferreira, Charline Clavier

This work was realized in part within the framework of the European Media Art Platform (EMAP) residency program at Gnration with support of the Creative Europe Culture Programme of the European Union, Avatar Center, and the Institut Ramon Llull.

Available for booking