Sound Horizon

Sound Horizon is a kinetic art piece made in collaboration with astrophysicist Jo Verwohlt. It was part of our exhibition Interference in Nikolaj Kunsthal February-May 2023.

Sound Horizon conveys the essence of the early universe. It consist of 13 polycarbonate plates each equipped with an interference film that oscillates between being opaque and transparent. This effect is enhanced by the film's dichroic properties, which allow it to transmit specific colors while reflecting their complements, creating an illusion of color transformation across the plates.

Accompanying the visual display is a carefully crafted soundscape, generated by recording the oscillations of various fluids with distinct viscosities. This auditory element synchronizes with the sculpture's motion, adding a dimension of sound to the visual experience 

The title "Sound Horizon" holds significance as it references the distance sound could travel in the early universe—a period characterized by a dense, warm plasma filling space.

Quality loadspeakers or headphones are required for the full experience of the music.

Photos by David Stjernholm