The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Sonic Lab will host a new exhibition and experiment, "Nature Resonance, Urban Echoes," starting September 1, 2025.
This exhibition focuses on the "soundscape" we encounter daily, offering an immersive auditory experience that explores how contrasting sound environments—urban and natural—affect human psychology and behavior. Combining state-of-the-art spatial audio technology with visual effects, the exhibition creates an opportunity for each visitor to discover the profound world of sound through their own senses and body.
Research Objectives and Concept
We may not often consciously perceive ambient sounds in our daily lives. However, these sounds influence our mind and body as much as, or even more than, visual information. Exploring this theme holds significant meaning, especially in Okinawa, where the contrast between rich natural sounds and artificial urban sounds is striking.
This project goes beyond a simple dichotomy, questioning the notion that "natural sounds are pleasant, and urban sounds are unpleasant." We can find vitality and a sense of security even amidst urban hustle and bustle, and conversely, feel awe or solitude in grand natural sounds.
We focus not only on the physical properties of sound but also on its "meaningfulness," shaped by individual experiences and cultural backgrounds, and the diverse psychological responses it elicits (e.g., comfort, stress, exhilaration, tranquility). In this exhibition, by intentionally manipulating the "consistency" between sound and visuals, we delve deeply into how information influences perception.
What We Want You to Feel at the Exhibition: Explore the World of Sound Through Your Own Senses
This exhibition is not merely something to be quietly observed. It is an experimental space where visitors' own senses take center stage.
- Experience a Realistic Soundscape with Your Whole Body
A state-of-the-art 3D audio system with multiple speakers reproduces realistic urban and natural spatial acoustics, making you feel as if you are truly there. Dive deep into the world of sound with immersive visuals linked to the audio. - Unconscious Behavioral Changes Created by Sound
This exhibition is also an experiment utilizing a public space. With due consideration for privacy, we will record and analyze behavioral changes of people passing through the tunnel to verify how sound and scenery influence our behavior and perception. The objective of this analysis is to find design guidelines for better public spaces in future. - New Discoveries of Sound and Emotion
Reset your preconceived notions and listen intently to your own "senses." You might find unexpected comfort in urban sounds or discover new emotions in natural sounds. This experience will be a unique opportunity to rediscover the connection between sound and your emotions.
Exhibition Overview
- Exhibition/Experiment Name: Nature Resonance, Urban Echoes
- Period: September 1 - September 28, 2025 | 9:00 - 17:00
- Location: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Tunnel Gallery
- No reservation required, Admission free
- Contact: culture@oist.jp
Credits
This project is promoted by experts from various fields including sound, visual arts, cognitive science, and engineering.
- Shunichi Kasahara (OIST, SonyCSL): Research and Direction
- Nick Luscombe (OIST): Artistic Direction and Sound Design
- Santa Naruse (SonyCSL): Content direction, Visual and System
- Junichi Shimizu (Sony): Spatial Sound Design and System
- Yuta Kawamoto (UTokyo): Behavior Analysis
- Sotaro Taniguchi (Waseda Univ.): Cognitive science research
- Katsumi Watanabe (Waseda Univ.): Cognitive science research
This exhibition system is powered by Spatial XR Sound Experience, combining Sony's spatial sound technology with a sound engine developed by Terasakahasou Inc.