Acoustic Artwork Influenced by Korean Folklore Embellished with Chimes

Haegue Yang’s newest installation, “Sonic Cosmic Rope,” showcased at the Cleveland Museum of Art, presents an enthralling blend of Korean mythology, sound, and motion. This piece draws inspiration from a classic Korean narrative about a brother and sister who rise to the heavens and transform into the sun and the moon, chased by a tiger. Within the museum, Yang’s artwork is suspended vertically from the ceiling, composed of small bells linked by rings. When touched, the bells produce an eerie sound, resonating with the legendary ascent up the sky ladder. The artwork conjures an ancient shrine-like ambiance, inviting contemplation and delicately balancing oral traditions through engaging sound. Yang’s craftsmanship, recognized for elevating commonplace items into grand sculptures, continues to echo through this distinctive installation. Although visitors cannot physically interact with “Sonic Cosmic Rope,” guided tours led by museum personnel provide an engaging experience of the piece. These tours, available until June 25, 2025, can be reserved on the museum’s website.