Soundscapes

Lisbon University of Architecture, MATERIART Symposium

Team:

ITU Computational Design Team

Type: MATERIART - The Desk Workshop at the
Faculdade de Arquitetura da Universidade de Lisboa

Instructors: Prof. Dr. Mine Ozkar (ITU/ SMarchs& Ph.D. MIT )
Prof. Dr. Leman Figen Gul (ITU)
Dr. Elif Sezen Yagmur Kilimci (ITU)

Time Frame: February - April 2019

Keywords: Installation, Machine Learning (OpenCV-Python), Sound Recording-Synthesis,
hand-drawing, digital collage-making, sound engineering

In accordance with Pijanowski's definition of 'Soundscape' as the collection of sounds within a specific area (2011), this installation ventures beyond the confines of a single location, embracing the sonic tapestries of two distinct cities. By delving into the auditory properties that characterize landscapes and cityscapes, this project aims to encapsulate the essence of time, space, and human activities in both Istanbul and Lisbon. Can these two cities converge through the transformative capabilities of machine learning?

The creative journey commenced with the meticulous gathering of sounds from the bustling streets of Istanbul. Simultaneously, five students from the Lisbon School of Architecture embarked on a parallel endeavor, capturing the sonic essence of Lisbon. As these two sonic worlds intertwined, we combined our free-hand drawings and digital impressions of Istanbul and Lisbon, layering sketches and sounds within the spatial installation. Each layer of drawings and sound belonged to an individual contributor, enriching the collective experience.

Within the structure of this installation, a captivating symphony unfolds, responsive to the movements of those who engage with it. As participants traverse its contours, the soundscape gracefully shifts, adapting to their journey. Moreover, as they draw nearer to the installation, the volume of the sounds amplifies, enveloping them in a deeply immersive auditory embrace. Through the harmonious interplay of digital and analog mediums, this project transcends physical boundaries, inviting visitors to partake in a personal and interactive encounter.

Ultimately, the installation serves as a poignant testament to the convergence of two cities and the amalgamation of ten unique perspectives. Through the fusion of digital and analog modalities, Istanbul and Lisbon intertwine, granting each visitor the opportunity to embark on their own distinct and captivating experience. The installation becomes a powerful conduit, blending the sonic landscapes and visual sketches of both cities, fostering a profound sense of interconnectivity. In this way, participants are transported beyond geographical and temporal boundaries, forging an emotional and multisensory connection with the collective narratives woven within the project.

Pijanowski BC, Villanueva-Rivera LJ, Dumyahn SL, Farina A,Krause B, Napoletano BM, Gage SH, Pieretti N (2011)

Soundscapes become a conduit to an alternate reality, where distant realms intertwine through the magic of machine learning. In this installation, the machine becomes a maestro, translating the experiencers' physical presence into pixels, seamlessly connecting them to the pulsating sounds of the cities. Across the installation's surface, eight sound zones are scattered, their placement spontaneous yet purposeful, accompanied by evocative freehand drawings that depict the essence of both cities. The spontaneity of the sound channels' distribution, mirroring the expressive strokes of the drawings, carries a powerful message: the machine possesses a predetermined path and vision, while our hands venture into uncharted territories. This convergence of message and medium unites the realms of destiny and improvisation, bridging the gap between the known and the unknown.

As visitors traverse the installation, their footsteps transform into a sonic experience. The soundscape shifts, responding to their ever-changing positions. Multiple participants contribute their unique footsteps, shaping an array of alternative city sounds. Drawing nearer to the installation, the auditory realm swells, engulfing the senses with the tumultuous harmony of both Lisbon and Istanbul, as if experiencing the two cities simultaneously in a vibrant cacophony. Amidst the intricacies of the installation, we find a human-crafted sanctuary, a linear habitat designed for safety and immersion. Yet, as we draw closer, speculation arises: Can we truly encounter two cities at once through the intuition of artificial intelligence? Can a machine emulate the profound creative capacity of our own hands?