CORAL SONIC RESILIENCE
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CORAL SONIC RESILIENCE is an interdisciplinary art and science project rooted in the principles of acoustic ecology. It explores how the soundscapes of healthy coral reefs can aid in the recovery of damaged ones.
Recent research in marine biology has revealed that the natural sounds of thriving reefs attract fish larvae and other marine organisms, helping to repopulate areas where marine life has declined. This process brings life back to the reef and supports the restoration process.
The sound sculptures are installed in damaged reefs and coral nurseries, serving as shelters for fish and substrates for coral growth. The underwater artwork continuously play vibrant, prerecorded soundscapes of healthy reefs, using sound as an active tool for restoration and environmental recovery.
The sculptures' shapes are inspired by coral landscapes and the intricate textures of brain corals. They are 3D-printed using ceramics and calcium carbonate—materials that are reef-compatible and reflect the natural composition of corals. The installation is fully powered by a custom-made floating solar energy station (Buoy).
CORAL SONIC RESILIENCE is more than an aesthetic experience—it’s a scientifically grounded initiative that merges art and science to promote marine conservation and reef restoration.
In addition to its environmental objectives, the project evolves into an immersive artwork, with plans to be exhibited in 2026 at ZKM Karlsruhe, Science Gallery Melbourne, Art Laboratory Berlin. This artistic element raises awareness about marine conservation and inspires action through the combined power of art and science.
CREDITS
Coral Sonic Resilience is a project by Marco Barotti, in cooperation with Relaxound, the Coral Restoration Project Feridhoo, The University of Padova and the Feridhoo Island Council.
Team
Advice on acoustic ecology and research: Timothy Lamont (Lancaster University)
Research, and project coordination: Antonio Beggiato
Research and data analisis: Federica Moscheo, Carola Chicco
Photos & videos: Marco Barotti, Luca Larson, Antonio Beggiato
Design: Studio Marco Barotti
Design coordinator: Andy Fofana
Solar station buoy design: Alles Blinkt
Text: Anna Anderegg, Sarah Möller
PV buoy simulations and optimization: Marcello Rava and Bruno Paduano
3D printing assistant: Mattia Rasori
CORAL SONIC RESILIENCE is funded by Relaxound, Senatsverwaltung für Kultur und Gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt and C-TAKT.
Technical Partner WASP
Supported by Electro-voice, Ambient Recording, GroupGets, MORE lab Politecnico di Torino
Special thanx to Claudio Lovato, Michela Zampieron, Mahamed Niham, Villa Rosa, Noohiri Divingcenter, Prof. Marco Vincenzo Patruno, Claudia Schnugg, Christl Baur, Giorgia Bettin, Philipp Stoerring, Julius Patschan, Angelina Ivkic, Reinhard Kikinger, Michael Krieg Goehringer, Muhtar Abdul Karem, Nicoletta Tranquillo, Cordula Falk, June Anderegg Barotti, Kevin Driscoll