'Celestial Armillary and Ubiquitous Wave' is a multimedia two-perspective (on-site/ virtual) experience of the same theme that explores the cognition of sound and the cosmos in a multisensory context, developed from a previous work ‘Round Sky, Square Earth’, 2022.
This art project combines elements of ancient Chinese astronomy with contemporary cosmological studies. It is centred on the 4th century B.C. Chinese Armillary Sphere and Astronomical Map are key instruments for interpreting celestial phenomena. By presenting contemporary astronomical measurement data with spatial sonification techniques, we aim to create an immersive experience bridge between historical perceptions and modern explorations of the universe.
Utilizing 24 channels of Higher-Order Ambisonics(HOA) sound experience and Virtual Reality experience, these two experiences perform in parallel and create a mirror heterotopia.
Globe, Astronomy, Armillary Sphere, Equatorial Armilla, Beijing Observatory, Bronze Replica, 20th Century Equatorial Armilla Chinese: 20th Century Bronze
01 / Spatial Sound Experience
This 24-channel spatial sound experience transports the audience to the centre of the armillary sphere in space. As it rotates, the audience will be taken on a sonorous voyage through the Solar System, with each planet's unique audio frequencies representing its distinct cosmic signature. This auditory exploration is accompanied by the ethereal sounds of traditional Chinese instruments, such as the Zither, Flute, Xun, and Drums. In parallel, the moving image reinterprets the ancient Chinese astronomical map, responding dynamically to the experimental music.
02 / Virtual Reality Experience
In this virtual reality experience, the ambisonic sound and interactive experience immerse people into a world of space measurement. By 6Dof, each step the audience takes changes the armillary sphere and its distance from the planets. The audience is encouraged to use their entities in the virtual space to measure the space-time transformation of the universe. Through the perception of spatial changes in the armillary sphere and the planet, this experience amplifies the sense of embodiment.
This multi-sensory experience is more than an artistic interpretation; it embodies a philosophical exploration of the 'oneness of heaven and humanity', as suggested by ancient Chinese thought. This interaction echoes the Cosmist idea of continual evolution and transformation of knowledge and existence. The project serves as a cosmic archaeological key, unlocking a profound experience of the universe and aligning with Cosmism's vision of transcending temporal and spatial boundaries, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the cosmos and our place within it.
Spatial Sound Experience & VR Experience Presented at The Centre Pompidou IRCAM Forum 2023, Studio 1
Concept: Cainy Yiru Yan
Spatial Sound Design: Cainy Yiru Yan
Video: Ke Peng
VR Prototype: Ke Peng
Modeling: Cainy Yiru Yan
Special Thanks: Matt Lewis
