Nils Völker's Musical Soundscape From Inflating Aluminum Cushions Is Strangely Beautiful

Artist Nils Völker has created a soundscape from golden aluminum cushions. Inside a temporary art space built from shipping containers called M0Bi in Groningen, The Netherlands, the site specific installation Nineteen uses custom electronics, computer cooling fans and an Arduino, to rhythmically inflate and deflate 19 large cushions made from mylar foil.

Its rows of shiny cushions create a hissing, methodic sound, while their changing volume sounds both meditative and slightly medical.

It's the largest installation Völker has yet created, and follows in the same pattern as his previous installations which feature inflating and deflating cushions made from different materials, creating a mesmerizing effect.

"The golden cushions create a strong contrast to the industrial appearance of the temporary space built from used shipping containers." says Völker. "The 19 cushions are selectively inflated and deflated in controlled rhythms to create a constantly changing soundscape in the exhibition space."

Check out some images of Nineteen below: