Nirvana 動態聲音裝置 by Zhenglong Yang is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award 銅獎 in 裝置設計 Competition Category.

銅裝置· 2025

Nirvana 動態聲音裝置

by Zhenglong Yang

A' Design Award 銅獎 Winner in 裝置 Category

15,284

Verified Award Winner

Verify Award Status for #163757

Visit Site View at A' Design Award Press Release Award Badge

Colors

The Design

About Nirvana 動態聲音裝置

涅槃融合傳統與科技，以電動化木魚矩陣為特色，木魚為傳統東亞儀式樂器。每件樂器內置自動敲擊器，透過物理運算同步運作，創造出富有節奏的聽覺模式。整體佈局在視覺上引人入勝，將手工製作形態與機械精準度完美融合，透過過去儀式與當代動態藝術之間的和諧，彰顯創新精神。

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award 銅獎

Nirvana 動態聲音裝置是 A' Design Award 銅獎得主，這是授予以創造力、獨創性和敏銳見長的傑出設計的極具聲望的認可。銅獎得主是技藝嫻熟、創意驚人的作品，印證了其設計師豐富的經驗、想像力與機智。預計Nirvana 動態聲音裝置將成為一件備受推崇、令人欽佩且被珍愛的物品，兼具顯著的專業性與創新性。這件贏得 A' Design Award 銅獎的設計融入藝術、科學、設計和技術領域的最佳實踐，並因注重細節而出類拔萃。Nirvana 動態聲音裝置出色地滿足需求，觸動渴望，迷住情感，並吸引好奇心。

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: "Nirvana" is a kinetic sound installation merging Buddhist philosophy with technology, it reinterprets ancient spiritual practices, offering viewers a unique, technology-driven meditative experience that bridges the gap between traditional Buddhism and contemporary art. It features motorized Wooden Fish arranged in a matrix. These traditional instruments, crucial in East Asian Mahayana Buddhist rituals, are synchronized through physical computing.
Dimensions & Packaging: Each panel is 2' (W) by 8' (H).
Tags: Installation, Buddhism, Sound, Immersive, Physical Computing
Production Technology: Realization Technology: Physical Computing
Materials: Solid Wood, Plywood, DC Motor, Sensor, Customized PCB Boards
Design Challenge: The primary challenge was mastering physical computing to synchronize 96 motors for perfect operation. Another hurdle was developing a robust connection mechanism. This required multiple iterations of custom 3D-printed parts to securely grip the Wooden Fish and mallets. The design process involved several rounds of modifications before reaching the final version. Additionally, incorporating CNC technology to cut plywood presented its own set of challenges. These technical obstacles demanded innovative problem-solving, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern fabrication techniques to realize the ambitious vision of "Nirvana."
Inspiration: "Nirvana" is a word from the Buddhist concept of enlightenment and the role of rhythmic sound in spiritual practices. The Wooden Fish, traditionally used to maintain focus during meditation, symbolizes mindfulness and spiritual journey. This project demonstrates how technology can enhance and recontextualize spiritual practices. Merging Buddhist elements with contemporary art and technology invites viewers to contemplate their spiritual journey and the pursuit of inner peace.
Project Duration: The project started in January 2024 in New York, finished in May 2024 in New York, and was exhibited in the ITP Spring Show in May 2024.
Operation Flow: "Nirvana" is an autonomous installation that operates independently of audience presence. The Buddhist wooden fish instruments are continuously struck by motor-controlled mallets, generating an unceasing soundscape. This autonomous operation creates a powerful, immersive environment, drawing the audience into its rhythmic and spiritual essence.
Image Credits: Video Credits: Qinghui Kong