microcosmos, 2016
vibrational sculpture | installation
dimensions variable
duration: 8 min looped
Microcosmos is a vibrational sculpture where energy is used to explore a fundamental notion: all physical bodies are perpetually vibrating, even when they appear to be perfectly still. For the piece, a cymbal is stimulated to activate the natural and characteristic patterns in which it vibrates, which are known as intrinsic resonance modes.
Using mechanical energy, the resonance modes of the cymbal are audibly and visually activated, revealing a hidden microcosm of vibration. This becomes the material of the composition. Like many of Triana’s artworks, Microcosmos explores a fundamental physical phenomenon through musical installation.
Behind the sculpture, the shadow of the vibrating cymbal is seen on a luminous circle of projected light. This references two-dimensional art, like painting and photography, except it is animated by the cymbal’s vibration. This communicates the multidimensional nature of the piece: it is musical, sculptural, and exists on a flat plane. The work unfolds across the temporal, the visual, and the spatial realms.
Special thanks: Christian Kook, technical assistance.
