Sound pollution at Lückstr.
Synopsis:
[ freq:res ] studies 01 / Sound Pollution at Lückstraße is an experimental audiovisual project investigating the relentless sonic environment of a narrow urban street in Germany, experienced through the daily barrage of blaring sirens. Over a week-long continuous 24/7 field recording, this work captures the invasive intensity and rhythms of emergency sounds that permeate the living space of a third-floor apartment overlooking the street. The piece explores the intersection of environmental sound pollution, personal wellbeing, and hearing challenges, transforming raw acoustic data into dynamic visual forms. By exposing the temporal patterns and loudness variations of sirens, the project reflects on how modern city soundscapes affect human perception, concentration, and health.
Project Description
Living in a densely built neighborhood along Lückstraße, I have endured nine years of persistent and intrusive siren noise. The street’s narrow architecture amplifies the sound of German emergency vehicles, creating an overwhelming and often distressing atmosphere. Recent hearing difficulties identified by a medical professional add a personal urgency to this investigation into sound pollution’s impact.
The project consists of a comprehensive one-week audio field recording capturing the full spectrum of street noise, focusing particularly on emergency sirens. Using advanced audio analysis techniques, siren events are detected through their distinctive frequency modulation and amplitude characteristics within the 500–2000 Hz range. This data, documenting the exact times and intensities of siren occurrences, serves as the foundation for an audiovisual piece.
By combining data-driven research and creative expression, freq:res studies 01 Sound Pollution at Lückstr. positions itself at the crossroads of sound art, environmental activism, and personal narrative, aiming to raise awareness about the often overlooked consequences of urban sound pollution.
Status: freq:res studies 01 Sound Pollution at Lückstr. is currently under development.
