The “Garden of Entanglement” project delves into the vibration and resonance of urban trees under human movement, blurring the boundaries between art, science, and environmental awareness. Utilizing seismic and high-sensitivity accelerometers (PCB 393-C) alongside 3D scanning (Faro laser, Polycam) and software like Unreal Engine, Covise, Matlab, and Max/msp, we aim to comprehend how trees resonate with various frequency lengths. Our objective is to craft immersive experiences that intimately connect audiences with the dynamic resonance of trees.

In the upcoming months, the artist will conduct experiments in Florence to gather new datasets simulating human movements and environmental stimuli, fueling dynamic simulations for virtual and physical installations. Additionally, the team plans to conduct interviews and research with arborists and biologists to gain deeper insights from their perspectives.

Scientific Perspective

The “Garden of Entanglement” project presents an alternative approach to studying urban tree dynamics and visualizing scientific findings. By analyzing acceleration data with support from HLRS in Stuttgart and collaborators, the artist seeks to elucidate tree interactions with their surroundings. The goal is to translate complex data into accessible and creative insights using advanced visualization techniques.

Potential Impact

This interdisciplinary approach aims at engaging diverse audiences through immersive experiences and promoting sustainable education, as well as raising awareness about urban tree dynamics. Notable achievements include successful experiments with data processing and visualization, paving the way for future simulations. Combining art and science shall lead to fresh perspectives and cultivating a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.

Garden of Entanglement: reflection and thoughts on project by Hiền Hoàng

Main learnings:

“The scientific collaboration with HLRS has been highly productive, offering critical insights into data processing and analysis. However, the administrative requirements, including agenda-less meetings and repeated reporting, have detracted from the project’s creative and innovative potential.”

Collaboration with AIR partners:

“While collaboration with HLRS has been highly effective, there has been limited curatorial and promotional support from the AiR partners. The lack of media exposure and the burdensome administrative tasks have created significant challenges. Meetings towards the final presentation in Barcelona often lack clear agendas, and reports are frequently not read by the organizing teams, leading to redundant meetings and explanations.”

This project is funded by the European Union from call CNECT/2022/3482066 – Art and the digital: Unleashing creativity for European industry, regions, and society under grant agreement LC-01984767