Sea City Clam Tower is a sound installation that takes its inspiration from the Chinese phrase for mirage, 海市蜃樓 “Hoi Si San Lau.” The breath of clam-like creatures was once believed to create visions of Penglai, the mythical island home of the immortals. In the installation, an ambient soundscape links underwater acoustics with sounds reflecting Macao’s relationship with the sea and its traditional fishing industry. Physical materials from Macao’s Inner Harbor, wet markets and local seafood restaurants are contrasted with dreamy mirages created through the projection of 3d animated fish and other local seafood. An aeration system brings a further layer of play between the virtual projected images, the movement of the water and bubbles that evoke the breath of clams.

The installation creates an otherworldly ambiance and opportunity to consider Macao’s history and its future development. It hints at environmental changes on the horizon, such as those arising from land reclamation, commercial fishing and other forces impacting the marine environment.

Courtesy of the artist