Japanese sound artist and designer Yuri Suzuki has created Arborhythm, an outdoor art installation capturing the sights and sounds of San Francisco, California.

Suzuki's sound project was commissioned to coincide with the Art of Noise exhibition – a multi-sensory tribute to how design has shaped music consumption over the past 100 years – at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SMOMA).

Positioned at SMOMA's entrance, Suzuki's sculptures are visible from a distance and have a distinct technicolour appearance that contrasts against the muted palette of the museum's architecture.

The artist was inspired by the shapes of trees when designing the sculptures, which contain speakers transmitting sounds that reference the San Francisco Bay area.

"The sculpture's form, inspired by trees, symbolises a welcoming presence, while its colours draw from local objects, landmarks, and natural surroundings, further anchoring it in the context of the city," Suzuki told Dezeen.

"I am particularly proud of the inclusive nature of the piece. It is designed to be accessible to all visitors, fostering a sense of community."

Suzuki's long-stemmed design also pays homage to attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, with its "international orange" hue.

Crafted from aluminium and steel, the painted sculptures are held in place with large circular bases that also function as seating.

"Aluminium was ideal for creating the trumpet-shaped horns due to its malleability, allowing for precise and intricate formations," Suzuki said.

"Steel, on the other hand, was chosen for its durability and strength, ensuring the sculpture's longevity as a permanent installation."

Arborhythm's signature feature is its horn-shaped speakers, which invite visitors to experience a sonic landscape of remixed foghorn, ocean wave, cable car and sea lion recordings.

"The inspiration stemmed from a collaborative effort with Joseph Becker, the curator of this project, and our mutual interest in generative music and AI," Suzuki added.

"The AI-curated sounds are designed to provide a relaxing ambiance in the otherwise concrete-dominated environment of the museum's location."

Through the intersection of art and sound, Suzuki's Arborhythm aims to create a serene experience for the museum's visitors.

"I hope the audience discovers a sense of calm and connection within the installation, making it a place they want to return to and spend time in," he said.

"The main takeaway is the fusion of art, sound, and community, creating a serene environment in the heart of the city."

The photography is by Myleen Hollero.

Arborhythm is on show at San Francisco Museum of Modern Art from 4 May to 18 August 2024. See Dezeen Events Guide for more architecture and design events around the world.