shapes of rain by stefano mori and matthias leboucher spatializes sounds of water in austria

sound, light, and scale interact at shapes of rain installation

Shapes of Rain is an interactive light and sound installation by Stefano Mori that explores possible ways to reconnect people with meteorological changes, and by extension, with nature. ‘How does rain shape our life, our time, and the territory we live in? How do we perceive one of the most important meteorological events on our planet? Are we really aware of it?’ the Italian architect and designer questioned when conceiving the work.

The result, unveiled in the forest of Austria, is a multi-sensory and three-dimensional experience, inviting people to observe the occurrence of rain with new awareness and curiosity. Taking visitors on a journey through and around, the wooden installation consists of three interconnected systems navigating through a display of sound, light, and scale.

stefano mori spatializes sounds of water in austrian forest

The first system of Shapes of Rain generates a rhythmic rain effect by connecting adjustable drippers to irrigation pipes. The second uses spotlights under transparent drumheads where falling water creates dynamic light effects. With the third, Stefano Mori amplifies, transforms, and spatializes the sounds of water drops using contact microphones and small speakers. A wooden framed structure incorporates and supports the three systems, enabling them to operate synergistically. Mirrors fixed around the structure form a scenic backdrop for the installation, seamlessly blending with the surrounding environment.

The project was presented at the Supergau festival, in the heart of the shady Passeggen forest north of Tamsweg in Austria, a historical place where thousands of people were executed by fire in the past. For the designer, this offered a unique surrounding where the work’s vibrant light and sound effects revoked the tragic memories of local persecution.

Reflecting on the significance of rain Stefano Mori notes that: ‘Like any other animal, originally mankind was completely at the mercy of atmospheric events. Seeking comfort, control, and security, we have started building shelters. We have created the idea of a closed space, the idea of a ‘weather-free’ space. For living, working, and carrying out most of our daily activities nowadays we spend 90% of our time in these environments. This is the reason why we mostly don‘t get to experience the change in weather conditions and the occurrence of rain directly around us.’

‘Moreover, because at our latitudes rain is a very common event we‘ve started taking it for granted. We‘ve started overlooking this occurrence, or worse, considering it inconvenient. We‘ve forgotten how sacred and important rain is. Rain fills our natural reservoirs, shapes the territories we live in, and brings life to our planet. It is the final phase of the water cycle, in which water returns to the Earth. Rain is not only necessary but it’s also a beautiful event: an event charged with aesthetic meaning, rhythm, haptics, and auditory sensations.’

project info:

name: Shapes of Rain
designer: Stefano Mori | @ste_mori

sound design and audio system: Matthias Leboucher

program: Supergau Festival — 26th May — 4th June, 2023

musical performances: Marina Iglesias, Christian Reiner, Andrej Prozorov, Anke Lucks, Almut Schlichting

location: Tamsweg, Passeggen Forest, Austria

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.