Yuri Suzuki’s ‘Onomatopia’ is a mini theme park designed to be listened to

Sound artist and electronic musician Yuri Suzuki presents his latest exhibition, Onomatopia, at Pentagram’s London headquarters. Featuring five dioramas of amusement park attractions, world fairs, and expos, the exhibit aims to highlight the role of sound in our lives. Created through ambient noise and miniature rides, each attraction produces unique sounds, evoking a greater appreciation for the power of sound.

On display through January 7, 2027, the exhibition includes a roller coaster called "Harmony in Motion" that sounds like an organ, a Ferris wheel named "Mechanical Music Wheel" that emits bright chimes, and a bumper car attraction that produces irregular plucking sounds. Suzuki uses primary colors, such as red, yellow, and blue, for the dioramas to create an accessible and visually simplified experience.

He believes that sound is often overlooked and underappreciated, but can be both harmful and positive when used appropriately.

Suzuki's work is inspired by the worldbuilding of Disney and theme parks, drawing parallels with Epcot, Walt Disney's "experimental prototype community of tomorrow." He hopes to eventually design a full-scale park with sound wellness integrated into its experience, serving as a reminder of the impact of sound on human communication.