Ostraka is a kinetic sound sculpture that explores the spatialisation of sound within the context where it is installed. For this work, Mike Rijnierse has repurposed an old parabolic dish as two reflecting moving heads, placed on either side of a hall. Once an antenna for satellite communication, today this instrument is vehicle for acoustic expression.
Rather than utilizing standard devices, Rijnierse strives to make music without loudspeakers. He investigates the multidimensionality of sound by entering in dialogue with architectures. Since sound is vibration propagated through air waves, Ostraka reveals the physicality of sound by concocting compressed air as sounding element sprayed onto the parabolic surface. By reflecting these air waves, the work projects itself throughout the architectural landscape.
Ostraka, kinetic sound sculpture, 2023
The relation between sound and space becomes evident when the public takes an active role in hearing. By standing still or moving around, visitors become aware of the composition traversing the air. The pulsing composition of Ostraka is generated by a custom made algorithm that rhythmically trigger the valves’ openings. Through this ever changing pattern, Ostraka scans the architectural context with air pulses.
The title of the work, Ostraka (from the Greek ostrakon, singular / ostraka, plural) refers to broken ceramic shards which were re-used for writing small pieces of text in ancient times. Those fragments of pottery that carried messages, bills, ballots or intimate letters are here resurrected as reflecting surfaces for acoustic experience. As one walks through the museum and Ostraka orbits above, air pulses reach one’s ears at different times, composing a unique aural experience, as if the old dish antenna had gained a voice of its own. Ostraka carries on with a lineage of sound sculptures exploring the notion of echolocation.
Read more contextualization by historian Michael van Hoogenhuyze here
Credits
Artwork Mike Rijnierse
Programming and electronics Rob Bothof
Pneumatics & 3D modeling and printing Jelle Reith
Engineering René Bakker
Mentoring Michael van Hoogenhuyze
Intern Hugo Remmen
This work was made possible with the generous support of Mondriaan Fund, Stokroos and Hoogwerkt. Special thanks to Johan van der Veen.