Shaped Sounds
Interactive media
Design BRIEF:
to design and create an interactive installation for the Cinekid Festival in Amsterdam, aimed at children aged 8–14, that introduces technology in an engaging yet critical manner, encouraging reflection rather than passive consumption.
pROCESS:
Play based design, field research, hacking, coding, and iterative prototyping, with inquiry-led exploration guiding the making process.
I sought out to design an audiovisual instrument that introduces children aged 8–14 to writing, performing, and experimenting with music through a play-based learning approach. The instrument is conceived as an exploratory tool that encourages curiosity, creativity, and hands-on engagement rather than formal instruction. Through interactive and intuitive interfaces, children are introduced to foundational concepts of sound design and sound programming in a fun, accessible manner. By learning through play, the project seeks to lower barriers to technical knowledge, foster creative confidence, and enable young users to develop an intuitive understanding of sound, composition, and performance.
Normative methods of music education often operate within environments that reinforce hierarchies and prioritize instruction-following over individual expression through the instrument. In response, this project proposes the creation of an instrument that teaches music and sound design through play, positioning each interaction as an enjoyable process of exploration, experimentation, and self-expression.
The instrument functions by altering sound and visual outputs through changes in the orientation of modular cubes, creating a puzzle-like system in which children generate complex audiovisual compositions through playful arrangement. By engaging with the instrument in a shared space, the design also encourages children to challenge their fear of performance, fostering confidence and comfort with expression in a performative environment.
The instrument was developed by programming RFID sensors to create a play-based arrangement system, which was then used to control live music composed of synthesizers and drums. This system was integrated with TouchDesigner to generate a responsive audiovisual experience that was projected onto surrounding walls.
The project was exhibited as part of Arcade for Adults in The Hague, Netherlands, where it was presented at the exhibition and art space Quartair. Overall, the project was successful, receiving third place in the Cinekid competition, with children actively engaging, dancing, and enjoying playful interaction with the instrument.
Click here to see videos of it
