Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics, ArtLab Foyer
Theatre of Memory
© Tim Otto Roth, imachination projects 2024, image of the "Theatre of Memory" in the Tieranatomisches Theater Berlin
A Neuro-Acoustic Sound Network by Tim Otto Roth
Forty spherical, luminous loudspeaker sculptures will transform the ArtLab Foyer of the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics (MPIEA) into an impressive neuronal music theater: Like nerve cells, these “audio neurons” excite or inhibit each other via their characteristic sine tones. The dynamically changing, rhythmic tone sequences and sudden cluster discharges are not predetermined by a score, but are created directly in space through tonal self-organization. The resulting microtonal sound network allows the audience to move between the floating loudspeakers and even interact with them.
Audiovisual Installation and Empirical Study
With this groundbreaking visual–acoustic staging, different research approaches can be pursued in the field of empirical aesthetics. These will be investigated through a questionnaire on the visitors’ exhibition experience. You will be offered the opportunity to take part in the study after your visit.
In his sound installations, the internationally active conceptual artist and composer Tim Otto Roth combines art and science in new ways. His immersive acoustic laboratories and light installations, shown from Hanoi to New York, not only make research tangible in their own unique way, but also invite the audience to actively explore the spaces of sound and light.
Theatre of Memory is being realized as part of Roth’s ReSilence residency by S+T+ARTS, an EU funding program at the interface of science, technology, and art. In January 2024, Theatre of Memory celebrated its premiere at the Tieranatomisches Theater in Berlin.
From February 16–28, the exhibition will be open Monday to Friday from 5–8 p.m.
The vernissage begins on February 15 at 7 p.m. Please register here.
In addition, as part of the How Did You Do That series, im Otto Roth will provide insights into his artistic work on February 20 at 6 p.m. This event will take place in the MPIEA’s ArtLab.
Admission to all events is free.
Note on Photo and Film Recordings
Please note that the opening event on February 15 will be recorded in photographs and by video/sound. These recordings will be stored by the MPI for Empirical Aesthetics and used to document and communicate its work.