TED Conference

Deliverables
Generative, Immersive Sound Experience
Application
Unnumbered Sparks - TED Conference

Process

We had the great opportunity to partner with Google Creative Lab and Janet Echelman in creating a generative soundscape that supported the Unnumbered Sparks interactive experience held at the Vancouver Harbor which was the center gathering place of the TED Conference. This was a truly unique experience in that it combined a massive scale aerial textile sculpture alongside interactive technology that allowed people to log into a browser that allowed them to interact in real time.

Design

Over a three month period we worked closely with Google’s Creative Lab to design three key sound parts that would support the Unnumbered Sparks experience for Ted Conference. First we created a seamlessly looping sound bed that was a representation of the aerial sculpture drifting in the sky. This served as an anchor point, constantly playing an ambient sound bed to attract visitors. We then created various sound swells and textures in various pitches that were triggered as people began interacting with the sculpture. And lastly, we created individual pings as each user logged into the experience. When all played together it create a dynamic balance of ever changing texture and melody that lived in the space for four months.

Sound Design Layers

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    Ambient Sound Bed

    Anchor point that grounds the soundscape

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    Interactive Swell Textures

    Textures that add color to the sound bed as people interact

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    Individual Pings

    Harmonious, percussive pings when people log in to begin interacting with the experience

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    Full Experience

    Simulation of all sound elements combined as users interact with the experience