sPATIAL AUDIO USER EXPERIENCE

eXPLORING ANXIETY THROUGH SOUND DESIGN

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eXPLORING ANXIETY THROUGH SOUND DESIGN 〰️

Overview

Roles

UX designer Sound Designer

Time taken

4 months

Key Research Points

Soundscapes loneliness and social isolation Noise and stress

Audio Piece

Installation

Problem Statement

Loneliness affects many people, leading to significant psychological impacts. There's a lack of awareness and empathy, causing many to struggle in silence.

Aim

The project aims to immerse the audience in the experience of loneliness through narration and everyday sounds, highlighting the psychological impact of solitude. It seeks to raise awareness, foster empathy, and provide comfort to those struggling with isolation.

Process

In the creative process for my audio piece, I utilized Ableton to weave a narrative from foley sounds sourced online. Before starting, I conducted extensive research on the psychological impacts of loneliness to ground the project in real experiences. Employing plugins, I deftly manipulated sound in a horizontal plane, meticulously placing each element to recreate a vivid environment. This synergy of technology and creativity resulted in an immersive auditory experience that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The piece was tested with multiple people to ensure its effectiveness and resonance.

Experience

Outcome

The project had a significant impact, with varied responses from the audience. Some people felt disturbed, as the soundscapes made them question themselves like a mind game. Others found comfort in the sounds, similar to white noise, with repeating patterns that were soothing. At Industry Day in the College of Creative Studies, I received an overwhelming response. Talking with attendees, I discussed the practical applications for the soundscapes, highlighting their potential for supporting mental health and therapeutic settings.