Waveform No.2

A kinetic form that activates the built-environment with motion from outdoors

Waveform No.2 explores the relationship between the built-environment and natural surroundings. Using data derived from nearby ecosystems an assembly of light fabric extrusions gently rise and fall in response to the shifting environment. The structure enables users to observe how seemingly subtle changes can produce powerful results when brought into balance with one another. The result is a mesmerizing dance, that gives insight into our relationship with nature and how we can best interact with it for healthful outcomes. By taking design cues from natural processes, Waveform No.2 brings awareness of the environment and its many interconnected systems into our everyday lives.

The artwork is a collaboration between Mikhail Mansion, Kuan Ju Wu and Fernando Diaz Smith.

Waveform No.2 is site-specific installation installed in the Cohen Gallery at Brown University. Colors reflect the installation timeframe—spring. Light voile fabric is used to contrast the heavy concrete walls and floors while minimal geometric shapes reference the building’s modern architecture.

Twelve lightweight fabric forms are hoisted by a hidden bank of computer-controlled motors. Counterweights are used to balance the forms, allowing them to rise and fall with ease. Each form is hoisted by a single monofilament line. Gathered fabric on the floor serves to stabilize the forms while preventing them from spinning. Due to the extra fabric, forms can rise as high as 4 meters (~12ft) into the air, and drop as low as 1 meter (~3ft).

Waveform No.2 is part of a constantly evolving, poetic body of work aimed at engaging in a creative dialogue with natural systems and environments. With the aid of embedded sensors, natural forces and phenomena can be harnessed to drive kinetic art installations for unique and expressive means of storytelling. This fascinating exploration of the intersection between the cyber and the natural is led by the Natura Machina artist collective, consisting of US-based artists Mikhail Mansion and Kuan-Ju Wu, as well as interactive media researcher and artist Yasuaki Kakehi of Japan.