Event 2

Noise Aquarium poster

For event 2, I participated in the Noise Aquarium at the California NanoSystems Institute Art Science Gallery. I enjoyed the fact that this exhibit was not only informative, but also interactive. It demonstrated how different noise sources and underwater pollution influence plankton. 

Professor Vesna projected animated 3D-models obtained with scientific imaging techniques of the extremely diverse plankton spectrum and immersed the audience in the 3D ‘aquarium’ of diverse planktons. They were projected as large as whales, so participants were closer to the animations. We went onto a platform where a destructive anthropocentric noise was being played and it continued until we were perfectly centered in the middle of the platform. This gave us a perspective as to how noise affects plankton. Professor Vesna informed us that the actual exhibit has every wall surrounded by the ocean, so it appears even more realistic. 

                  Me at the event                                                                                  The interactive platform

This event showcases art, science and technology. The display enables the participants to become more aware of how essential plankton is to the ecosystem, which it successfully does. Overall, I would highly recommend this exhibit to everyone. Not only is it interactive and beautiful, but it also has a very important message. It is evident that microscopic organisms are crucial for an ecological balance.



Sources:

Sick-Leitner, Magdalena, et al. “Diving into Deep Space with Noise Aquarium.” Ars Electronica Blog, 27 Aug. 2018, ars.electronica.art/aeblog/en/2018/08/27/noise-aquarium/.

“PROJECT DESCRIPTION.” NOISE AQUARIUM, noiseaquarium.com/the-project/.

“NOISE AQUARIUM BY VICTORIA VESNA.” The Paseo Project, paseoproject.org/portfolio/victoria-vesna/.

“Featured Event.” California NanoSystems Institute at UCLA, cnsi.ucla.edu/project/noise-aquarium-3d-audio-visual-experience-of-plankton-in-noise-pollution/.

Vesna, Victoria. “VICTORIA VESNA.” Victoria Vesna | Projects, victoriavesna.com/index.php?p=projects&item=0.