Paralull is a multi-scale installation that sites itself in environmental noise. The work generates public engagement in the noise issues highlighted by the World Health Organization, by smoothly tempering city noise into the most comparable sound found in nature. According to some research on natural sound exposure and the biophilia hypothesis, this transition can relieve people from the sonic annoyance caused by urban noise, and bring with a higher level of relaxation after noise.

The petal-like umbrella is a portable device for everyone to experience noise purification in every corner of city. To help audience focus on the aural perception, the graphic reaction to sound is designed with interactive patterns of diverse transparency, in consideration of the minimal influence of visual and the most intimate connection to the ambience. As an augment of triggered sounds, the change of shadow and light simulates the imagination of natural elements, such as birds, trees and the ocean. Alternatively, each umbrella can be inserted into a trunk station, sharing a stronger shelter of noise on a public scale. With synergetic visual interaction, the novel installation creates an aspirational soundscape for a better urban future.

 

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Design Thesis

More information about Paralull can be found at:

https://jackiewang.me/posts/paralull.html

 

References

Alvarsson, J. J., Wiens, S., & Nilsson, M. E. (2010). Stress recovery during exposure to nature sound and environmental noise. International journal of environmental research and public health, 7(3), 1036-1046.

Gould van Praag, C. D., Garfinkel, S. N., Sparasci, O., Mees, A., Philippides, A. O., Ware, M., Ottaviani, C., & Critchley, H. D. (2017). Mind-wandering and alterations to default mode network connectivity when listening to naturalistic versus artificial sounds. Scientific reports, 7, 45273. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep45273

Huron, D. (2008). Sweet anticipation: Music and the psychology of expectation. MIT press.

Wilson, E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Harvard University Press.