love hultén's tegel sound sculpture incorporates bonsai tree to generate audio experiences

Tegel sound sculpture by Love Hultén

Swedish artist and craftsman Love Hultén has designed the Tegel, a sound sculpture that merges traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Across his body of work (see more of his creations in our previous articles here), the artist combines vintage aesthetics with contemporary functionality, exploring diverse mediums like woodworking, electronics, and design. Tegel, specifically, incorporates a miniature bonsai tree connected to probes and a small computer to create audio experiences. The sculpture interprets biological data from organic material by detecting minute fluctuations in electrical currents, and then these signals are translated into MIDI, which is directed to a Korg NTS-1 synth for basic sound manipulation. This innovative approach cleverly utilizes plants as adjustable resistors, highlighting a fusion of nature and technology in generating sound.

all images by Love Hultén

A Fusion of Craftsmanship and Technology

Love Hultén is recognized for his handcrafted consoles, retro-inspired gaming devices, synthesizers, and other art pieces that combine nostalgic elements with a minimalist and sleek design. The piece also features an analog VU-meter and a small MIDI keyboard for optional use. Drawing inspiration from the brick sculptures by Per Kirkeby, a Danish painter, poet, filmmaker, and sculptor, its design was initially conceived as a prototype for a local public art contest. Hultén’s work highlights his blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary technology, aiming to breathe life into objects and challenge conventional perceptions of music and design.

the sound sculpture is based on biodata

the design draws inspiration from the brick sculptures by Danish painter and poet Per Kirkeby

the plant acts as a variable resistor

project info:

name: Tegel

designer: Love Hultén | @lovehulten