Sonic Topographies is a survey of sound exploring the auditory landscape of a given area. By recording the soundscape over a period of time and distilling the information into an average tone, similar to identifying the average color in a picture, the soundscape changes into a unique visual representation for viewers to engage with without needing to hear it. 
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The wavelength of the tones are translated into glass discs reminiscent of a Fresnel lens and the glass used is collected off the street in the same sample area used during the recordings. As light passes through the lens, it refracts onto a wall, creating a captivating visual display that reflects the essence of the specific area. Viewers are invited to immerse themselves in the spectacle, walking among the lights and engaging with their own shadows. The intensity of the light corresponds to the decibel level of the area, while the size of the lens mirrors the sampled area's scale.
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Sonic Topographies’ purpose is to provide a deeper understanding of an area's soundscape, beyond the need for auditory perception. Drawing from my personal experiences living in wilderness areas, I'm driven by a curiosity about how human activities are reshaping our sonic environments. How does the composure of a natural space compare to the cacophony of a built environment? What sound contrasts exist between Coral Gables’ constant landscaping crews and an inner-city districts’ construction? By converting sounds into visual forms, I believe it is possible to educate people about acoustics, urban planning, and environmental science.