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Milan Salone 2017: Artful AI

By Rachael Stott 11 : 04 : 2017 Milan Salone 2017 : Audi : Yuri Suzuki

Milan – Audio artist Yuri Suzuki presented an AI-controlled sound installation in the courtyard of an old Milanese seminary.

  • Sonic Pendulum comprised a series of swinging pendulums that responded in real time to ambient sounds created by visitors
  • The installation was created for Audi City Lab, the brand’s design and innovation outpost
Sonic Pendulum by Yuri Suzuki at Audi City Lab, Milan Sonic Pendulum by Yuri Suzuki at Audi City Lab, Milan
Sonic Pendulum by Yuri Suzuki at Audi City Lab, Milan Sonic Pendulum by Yuri Suzuki at Audi City Lab, Milan
Sonic Pendulum by Yuri Suzuki at Audi City Lab, Milan Sonic Pendulum by Yuri Suzuki at Audi City Lab, Milan

Microphones located around the space recorded sounds and disturbances generated by visitors, which were then translated into an atmospheric soundscape by an AI algorithm, while a series of 30 large, swaying pendulums modulated the sound coming from the speakers.

Working alongside AI firm Qosmo, Suzuki programmed the AI algorithm to create a site- and moment-specific experience for each viewer. According to Suzuki, the responsive, evolving nature of Sonic Pendulum creates infinite audio and visual combinations, and no two visitor experiences are the same.

The Big Picture

For more stories from this year’s Salone Internazionale del Mobile, check out our Briefing and Shows sections.

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