Abstract
This practice-led research explores the concept of visual musicality within the framework of three-dimensional design, examining how musical elements such as rhythm, melody, harmony, and dynamics can be translated into tangible forms. It investigates the translation of musical elements into three-dimensional design through iterative student experimentation. Centered on experiential learning, the study documents a series of student-driven projects that explore the interplay between auditory and visual-tactile forms. Participants selected musical compositions (spanning genres such as classical, jazz, and electronic), analyzed their structural components—rhythm, melody, harmony, and dynamics—and iteratively translated these elements into physical forms using materials like wire, wood, fabric, and recycled plastics. The experimental process prioritized hands-on exploration, where students tested material playful behaviors and construction techniques. Key outcomes include the development of spatial narratives that mirrored musical progression, with emphasis on proportional balance, textural contrast, and visual dynamism. The final works, confined to a 50x50 cm field, highlighting the challenges of aligning abstract sound with tangible form. Findings reveal how iterative experimentation fosters creative problem-solving, material literacy, and cross-sensory design thinking. This research contributes to design pedagogy by demonstrating how music can serve as a scaffold for teaching three-dimensional composition, while underscoring the role of trial-and-error processes in nurturing student innovation. Evaluation criteria focused on experimental rigor, conceptual coherence, and the ability to articulate synergies between musical inspiration and material outcomes.
Presenters
Karna MustaqimSenior Lecturer, Design and Creative Industry/ Visual Communication Design, Universitas Esa Unggul, Jakarta Raya, Indonesia Erwin Rezasyah
Lecturer, Faculty of Design and Creative Industry, Universitas Esa Unggul, Jakarta Raya, Indonesia Christophera Ratnasari Lucius
Universitas Esa Unggul Iwan Zahar
Universitas Esa Unggul Anita Lawujaya
Faculty Member, New Media/School of Design, Bina Nusantara University, Jakarta Raya, Indonesia
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
MUSICALITY, THREE-DIMENSIONAL, EXPLORATION, REFLECTIVE, SYNAESTHESIA
