Installation View: Cycloïd-E

Cycloïd-E arose from the desire to develop a mechanism that produces visible wave movements and to relate this to the development of sound waves.

A pendulum is placed horizontally and gravity is replaced by a motor. The pendulum consists of metal tubes equipped with sound sources and measuring devices that cause the tubes to resonate depending on their rotational movements. The result is a sequence of unpredictable movements. The balance of energy exchange in the different parts approaches perfection, the resulting trajectories are surprisingly precise and natural. It is all about absolute harmony. During its fascinating and hypnotic dance, Cycloïd-E explores the space created by the sound trajectories of this unique kinetic and polyphonic work of art – a little like the ‘Cosmic Ballet’ referred to by Johannes Kepler in his Music of the Spheres in 1619. (Cod.Act)

Cod.Act: Duo (André Décosterd: Installation, Music) and Michel Décosterd: Installation, Music

André Décosterd completed an apprenticeship as an organ builder in Neuchâtel before studying at the École de Jazz et de musique actuelle (Ejma) in Lausanne, where he subsequently specialized in programmed music and algorithmic composition. Michel Décosterd studied architecture at the engineering school in Biel (graduated in 1994). The visual artist began his career as a photographer before turning to the construction of translucent kinetic devices. In 1997, the two brothers founded the Cod.Act group, which worked closely with the engineer Jacques Décosterd (1936-2024) in the fields of industrial informatics and automation until his death.

The group's artistic and scientific work focuses on machines and objects that translate spaces and movements into sound and thereby develop a surprising, quasi-organic life of their own. The sound objects developed by the brothers often move autonomously and thus open up a surprising encounter between sculptures and their viewers. Cod.Act operates at the interface of sculpture, architecture, performance, sound and music. André and Michael Décosterd have realized numerous international exhibitions and received a number of prestigious awards, including the Golden Nica at Ars Electronica Linz and three times a main prize at the Japan Media Arts Festival. In 2019, Cod.Act was awarded the Swiss Grand Prix for Music.