Lab 1.2 Fast Rewind: SAM (Sound Activated Mobile)

The Sound Activated Mobile, SAM for short, was exhibited at the Cybernetic Serendipity exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art in London in 1968. SAM was the first sculpture that reacted to its surroundings by moving in response to sounds. A simple circuit with four microphones and two electro-hydraulic servo-valves allowed SAM to detect sounds and move accordingly. What makes this work especially interesting is that it is an early example of the use of sensors and actuators in an artwork. Nowadays, a micro-controller like Arduino makes the use of sensors and actuators an almost standard procedure. However, in 1968, SAM might have been considered revolutionary, inspiring awe in its audience. What makes SAM interesting even today is the simplicity of the work, with which it was able to catch the attention of the audience, fascinating them for hours. This can still spark inspiration for novel works in that it inspires an artist or researcher to strive for an experience or goal with the simplicity of the work in mind. You do not need extremely fancy and elaborate contraptions to inspire or captivate the audience.