forest whisper, 2022
Redwood, 77 x 25 x 23”
Gualala Arts Global Harmony Sculpture Garden, CA
April 8, 2022 - present
 

“Forest Whisper” is a public sound sculpture designed to amplify the rich but often unnoticed sounds of the redwood forest. The idea for this project came after I learned that trees emit sounds at very low frequencies, which instilled a desire to listen and learn from them. Inspired by Erika Rothenberg’s 1984 megaphone sculpture that explores freedom of expression, I decided to make an interactive “mega-scope” that serves both as a megaphone and a naked-eye telescope, to amplify the sounds of the forest and frame its the surrounding beauty. Instead of metal, the megaphone was built with local available wood. 

 

Visitors are invited to place their ear next to the megaphone’s small opening, close their eyes and pause for a few moments to listen to the forest. By actively listening and interpreting the forest sounds, audiences may feel a sense of peacefulness, and at the same time, reflect on their physical and spiritual connections with trees. “Forest Whisper” offers a contemplative space, in hope that by looking in and listening to the forest, audiences might enhance their ecological awareness. They are also welcome to embrace the megaphone and voice their thoughts, grievances, and hopes!