Cymatics is the study of sound and vibration founded in the 20th century by Hans Jenny. Sound wave phenomena can be observed through analog means by using rigid plates and loose particles to evince geometric patterns at different frequencies. 

Cymatico is a sculpture and though-work that starts with curiosity about the relationship between sound and plants. We understood scientifically that plants can perceive light, scent and touch; and they can also respond to sounds. It is speculated that audio cues may help plants survive or thrive in different habitats.

We take poetic license to explore these phenomena and create an artwork for others to contemplate the sonic nature of plants.

Using an electroencephalography device we can detect subtle electrical currents emitting from living plants. EEG sensors are typically used to observe human brain wave functions by placing electrodes on the scalp. Instead, we applied electrodes to the leaves and stems of living plants.

We gave voice to plants by taking the EEG outputs and attaching them to MIDI controllers. We made their signals audible by assigning a timbre in Ableton Live (sound production software). Once the plants were sonic, we determined an average frequency range that the plant seemed to like, classifying it as "plant’s desired frequency”.

The plant’s specifications were then visualized by playing its frequency through a tone generator into a fixed cymatic plate. From the plate emerged a geometric pattern. We based the sculpture on the same pattern, and then grew the plant into that pattern as if it had self-actualized