Ned Kahn

Seismic Sea is a large-scale interactive installation by artist Ned Kahn that explores the invisible forces connecting the Earth, its atmosphere, and the natural world. Drawing inspiration from the movement of sound, vibration, and water, the work transforms scientific phenomena into a captivating public experience at the entrance of the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum.

At the heart of the installation, a series of stainless-steel vessels are integrated within a circular pool of water. As vibrations pass through the containers, distinct wave patterns emerge across the water’s surface, making sound visible through motion. The resulting ripples radiate outward, creating an ever-changing landscape that responds to different frequencies and resonances.

Varying in scale and arranged according to the Fibonacci sequence, the vessels create a carefully orchestrated composition that balances rhythm, proportion, and movement. Historical recordings, environmental sounds, and other audio sources generate unique formations across the pool, revealing the relationship between physical laws and natural phenomena.

By translating sound into visible patterns, Seismic Sea invites visitors to experience the hidden connections between humanity, nature, and the forces that shape our world. UAP | Armetal collaborated on the technical development, fabrication, and installation of the artwork, helping bring this immersive and scientifically inspired installation to life.