Voice Tank
Ripple tank controlled by polyphonic pitch detection actuation. When two participants speak into intercoms, their voices are analyzed and converted into notes. Motorized components located on both ends of a water tank hammer these notes onto the water’s surface. The resulting waves interact and create unique patterns and shadows on the water’s surface.
General info
Technique:
custom transparent acrylic tank filled with water, motorized actuators, LED lights, 2 intercoms, computer
Power:
110W on 220V
Room conditions:
Room requires controlled lighting. A white painted floor beneath the tank allows the ripple pattern to be more visible
Dimensions:
Tank dimensions: 150 x 180 cm
Edition:
6 copies + 1 AP copy
Exhibitions
- Rafael Lozano-Hemmer: Atmospheric Memory, Manchester International Festival, Manchester, United Kingdom, 2019.
Credits
- Pipo Pierre-Louis, Stephan Schulz - Hardware and Software
- Generique Design - Industrial Design
- Sarah Amarica, Karine Charbonneau, Pierre Fournier, Kitae Kim, Frederic Monast, Jesse Morrison, Rebecca Murdock, Matthew Palmer, Caroline Record, Tegan Scott - Production and Installation Support
- Roy J. Macdonald - Coding support

Photo library (click to expand)
2019 - Manchester International Festival, Manchester, United Kingdom