Entanglements is an interactive audiovisual installation explicating a fundamental phenomenon which shapes our relationship with the universe, namely quantum entanglement. Through a novel interface that combines sight, sound and touch, actual quantum entanglement phenomena are created and expressed through unique sonic signatures. In incorporating precision scientific devices, this project is not simply speculative, but it is also not didactic or scientifically reductive. Two connected road-cases contain a custom built photon entanglement device comprising a laser, a Barium Borate crystal, two single photon detectors, synthesizer, and an audio-haptic interface.
This practice-led research demonstrates how subatomic quantum phenomena can be be visualised/sonified, and how the strange reality of quantum entanglement can be revealed through aesthetic experience. A key question raised by expressive manifestations of quantum phenomena is the relationship between the phenomena and the observer. Through aesthetic observation of entangled systems, this work facilitates their material capacity to be ‘knowable’.
Research Background Entanglements is an interactive audiovisual installation explicating a fundamental phenomenon which shapes our relationship with the universe, namely quantum entanglement. Through a novel interface that combines sight, sound and touch, actual quantum entanglement phenomena are created and expressed through unique sonic signatures. In incorporating precision scientific devices, this project is not simply speculative, but it is also not didactic or scientifically reductive. Two connected road-cases contain a custom-built photon entanglement device comprising a laser, a Barium Borate crystal, two single photon detectors, synthesizer, and an audio-haptic interface. Research Contribution This practice-led research demonstrates how subatomic quantum phenomena can be visualised and sonified, and how the strange reality of quantum entanglement can be revealed through aesthetic experience. A key question raised by expressive manifestations of quantum phenomena is the relationship between the phenomena and the observer. Karen Barad argues “instead of there being a separation of subject [the apparatus] and object [of investigation], there is an entanglement of subject and object” [1]. Through aesthetic observation of entangled systems, this work facilitates their material capacity to be ‘knowable’. Research Significance This work was selected by international peer review (4 blind reviewers) for inclusion in ISEA: the 24th International Symposium on Electronic Arts. This is the premiere international conference for research in electronic arts and new media. The acceptance rate for the creative program was around 15%. The installation was inspired by conversation with theoretical physicist Anton Zeilinger, and is the first aesthetic demonstration of his entanglement theory for which he received the Nobel Prize in 2022. The work led to the first author being awarded the prestigious ANAT Synapse Arts-Science fellowship for 2024.