kinetic clam sculptures convert data from bodies of water into evolving soundscapes

CLAMS translate data from water into sounds and movement

CLAMS, designed by Marco Barotti, is a series of kinetic sound sculptures that translate data from water quality sensors into sound and movement. Inspired by the natural function of clams as water purifiers, each sculpture is constructed from recycled plastic and incorporates a speaker. The sculptures respond to real-time data from water purity sensors placed in bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or seas.

all images by Marco Barotti

Marco Barotti’s sculptures open and close like real-life CLAMS

Media artist Marco Barotti uses the collected data to generate an evolving soundscape, characterized by microtonal shifts that create a dynamic auditory experience. As the water quality fluctuates, the sculptures perform subtle opening and closing movements, reflecting the changing environment. This work explores the intersection of media art, data sonification, and environmental awareness, offering a sensory representation of water quality.

Marco Barotti created a series of kinetic sound sculptures inspired by the biology and natural functionality of clams

crafted from recycled plastic, ‘Clams’ sculptures are driven by water quality data

each clam’s shell is carefully molded with a vacuum former, and contains a loudspeaker

the continuously evolving microtonal soundscape creates a subtle, life-like opening and closing motion in each shell

a constantly shifting process driven by water quality levels generates the basis for the music

Clams gather real-time data from water purity sensors placed in rivers, lakes, or seas where they are exhibited

water quality data collected at the Oosterdok in Amsterdam

project info:

name: CLAMS
designer: Marco Barotti | @marcobarotti

software development: Pim Boreel

photography, video: Marco Barotti

co-funded by: Creative Europe, C-Takt, Oerol Festival, Transnatural

supported by: Dayton Audio, ‘In-Situ’ water quality measurements, Ambient Recording

developed at: WRO Art Center within the framework of EMAP / EMARE

special thanks to: Anders Ehlin, Marco Canevacci, Yena Young, Stefan Dietzelt, Carsten Reith, Daniel Brunet, Markus Wüste for advice and support

award: NTU Global Digital Art Award Singapore

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: christina vergopoulou | designboom