Cymatics

What happens when liquids, sound, and light converge? “C” is an immersive installation that explores the relationship between these elements, using strobe lights, subwoofers, and LEDs to reveal the patterns created by vibrating liquids. Developed in collaboration between Andrea Heilrath and Anda Kryeziu for Labor Beethoven 2020 at the Akademie der Künste Berlin, the piece blends artistic expression with scientific experimentation.

At its core, “C” is inspired by cymatics—the study of wave patterns formed when sound interacts with matter. By exciting liquids of different viscosities, the piece visualizes Faraday waves, intricate standing waves that form on a liquid’s surface when vibrated. These phenomena allow participants to witness how non-Newtonian fluids like oobleck—cornstarch mixed with water—shift between liquid and solid states depending on the forces applied.

Through this interplay of light, sound, and fluid dynamics, “C” offers an engaging way to experience the invisible forces that shape the world around us, making the physics of sound both accessible and mesmerizing.