Project: ORECULA
Author: Damon Arabsolgar
A movable sculptural installation designed to create a distinctive acoustic experience in public space.
Sound as a medium for connection, encouraging people to actively engage with their surroundings and with each other.
ORECULA is an interactive acoustic installation for public space that combines sound perception, inclusive play, and material experimentation. Developed within the YouRban programme, it explores the use of recycled fibre-reinforced polymers (rFRP) in accessible urban sculpture.
A parabolic structure reflects and concentrates sound toward a focal point, allowing users—especially children—to experience amplified listening by positioning themselves within it. Initially conceived as a system linking distant urban points through sound, it evolved into a single self-standing installation.
The structure consists of a 120 cm parabolic reflector on a 180 cm wooden frame, designed for outdoor stability and safety. The acoustic focus is set at 120 cm height to align with children’s interaction. The surface is made using manual layup with resin, gel coat, and recycled/virgin glass fibres, requiring precise control of curing to achieve a stable concave form.
Beyond a playful acoustic object, ORECULA is a proof of concept for recycled composites in complex geometries. It generates transferable knowledge for public art, playground design, and industrial applications.
Ultimately, it functions as both object and method—exploring how material innovation, simple geometry, and human interaction can create meaningful urban experiences.
