Kihikihi is an interactive sound installation inspired by the New Zealand chorus cicada, which is renowned for its rhythmic and persistent sound that heralds the end of summer.

In the installation, the audience can activate ‘electronic insects’ by placing them on ‘electronic trees’: once contact is made, the insect starts glowing and chirping. The insects form an orchestra, their voices blending and interweaving into a polyrhythmic sound cloud.

This participatory installation provokes contemplation on the deeper interwovenness of our natural environment and the importance of insects to human survival. If the world-wide insect decline continues at its rapid rate, will artificial insects be all that we have left? Beyond their usefulness to the ecosystem, what are we losing culturally and emotionally? Who will sing for us in summer?

Website: kihikihi.info