Brooklyn creative studio duo Wade and Leta have unveiled Stop, Listen, Look, a vibrant kinetic installation located on a commercial rooftop in Chengdu, China. Standing seven meters tall, the public art installation is a fusion of color, movement, and sound, designed to engage the vistors with the city's rhythms.
The installation features horn-like structures that respond to wind and ambient sounds, creating shifting patterns of light and shadow. Motorized and wind-driven elements keep the sculpture in constant motion, mirroring the bustling energy of Chengdu's streets. Interactive components, including two seesaws and a MIDI sound controller, allow visitors to influence the surrounding soundscape through touch and movement.
Drawing inspiration from Chengdu's architectural and cultural motifs—such as the city's radial layout, Anshun Bridge, and the Golden Sun Bird—the installation juxtaposes ancient symbolism with contemporary design. The visual experience is complemented by an evolving audio track created in collaboration with British music producer Eric Lau, incorporating field recordings from Chengdu's markets and streets. Additionally, local artist Huang Jin contributes an eight-tone installation that weaves through the site, enriching the auditory experience.
Stop, Listen, Look exemplifies how public art can transform urban spaces into interactive landmarks, fostering community engagement and celebrating local culture through immersive design.
WATCH LETA AND WADES DESIGN TALK HERE
