'synaesthetic sanctuary' is an audio-visual exploration of bird songs

therefore, drawing from this pool of knowledge, ‘synaesthetic sanctuary’ attempts to encompass the raw complexity of sound by creating a system that non-specialists can use to contrast and compare unique variations in native bird songs. the final system, in other words, transforms sound data into an accessible design tool – with the final output consisting of audio-visual images and animations. you can see more of william shaw’s works here.

a sublime visualization of mankind’s understanding of sound

completed for his degree in design innovation at the victoria university of wellington, shaw’s audio-visual project was heavily inspired by mankind’s intuitive understanding of sound. ‘this research aims to take advantage of the natural phonaesthetic connections people make between sonic and visual elements,’ he explains. this understanding helped inform audio-visual mapping decisions throughout various stages of the design process. moreover, the aesthetic qualities of shaw’s artworks reference the physical appearance of native birds through color, texture, and form. prints are available for purchase; you can learn more about it here.

kea song – linear

tui song – circular

fantail song – circular

kaka song – detail

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom