Slience the Seas, Help Life Breathe.

Inspiration

“Noise Tide” was inspired by my concerns about the impact of urban noise on the human and natural environment, and in particular the unique challenges that noise pollution poses to marine life in Auckland as a port city. Noise pollution is often overlooked and is less understood and valued than air pollution or climate change. Therefore, I wanted to explore how to 'visualize' this invisible pollution through art, so that people can visualize the damage that noise does to the environment while viewing it. The question at the center of my design is: “How can we raise awareness of the impact of noise pollution on human health and marine life?” This question motivated me to design an interactive experience that directly presents the effects of noise pollution in an attempt to subconsciously provoke empathy and reflection in the viewer.

What is Noise Tide?

Noise Tide is an interactive installation crafted to heighten awareness about the impact of noise pollution on marine ecosystems. This multi-component project features a core sculpture that transforms ambient noise into dynamic visuals, complemented by an informative website and a set of awareness posters. The primary installation showcases delicate sculptures inspired by New Zealand’s native marine species—the Hector’s Dolphin, Box Jellyfish, and Kokopu fish—each suspended within a 160cm x 48cm iron frame. These sculptures, made from paper and wire, serve as projection surfaces, translating sound waves into imagery that reflects the disruption noise causes to marine life.

The interactive program I developed transforms noise levels into visual patterns that resemble water pollution. When sound surpasses a healthy decibel threshold, the projections intensify, making the marine sculptures appear as if they are “bleeding,” representing the damage caused by noise pollution. Conversely, at balanced noise levels, the projections display vibrant, flowing patterns that create a calming, harmonious visual effect, symbolizing a healthier, quieter environment.

To enhance viewers' understanding of Noise Tide, I created a website detailing the installation's purpose, the harmful effects of noise on humans and marine life, practical tips for reducing noise pollution, and a noise map. Additionally, I designed three posters that illustrate Auckland’s coastline alongside the impact of noise pollution, including stranded marine animals, to convey the urgency of addressing this environmental issue.

Noise Tide serves as a visual and interactive reminder of the unseen impacts of noise pollution, urging us to consider the often-overlooked environmental noise in our daily lives. Through art, information, and engagement, this installation aims to foster greater empathy and inspire action toward a quieter, healthier world for both people and marine life.