Inkless
Kinetic Sounding Object | Spatial Performance (2026)
The bookbinding needle archives the stroke of sound. The rolling paper creates a chronological record of movement over time, as if a seismograph is tracing the vibrations of an earthquake. The micro-sounds around the archive box explore the interplay between the permanence of ink and the temporality of sound.
Part of the Library Genesis group exhibition at the Rikhardinkatu Library, built in 1882, the first building in the Nordic countries designed as a public library. Curated by Uni Nissinen and located in the artist books collection area at the base of the library’s spiral staircase.
Inkless includes a sound performance that reveals the hidden electromagnetic forces within the archive box and the Rikhardinkatu Library. The kinetic movements follow the score of the sound piece, creating a dialogue between the invisible and physical world.
Presented at the exhibition opening, the sound piece can be heard from all floors, and listeners were invited to roam around the library quietly.
Picture taken by Eleni Kavouki
The bookshelf sculpture, handmade by carpenter Kryštof Kučera holding artworks by artists Sara Blosseville, Hikari Nishida, Frans Nybacka Jaakko Pallasvuo, and Xiao Zhiyu.
Credits for Inkless
Electronics guidance: Matti Niinimäki
Woodworking guidance: Janne Andberg
Metalwork guidance: Janne Ojala
Credits for Spatial Piece
Impulse response support: Ricardo Atienza Badel
Sound guidance: Andrea Mancianti
Technical support: Alejandro Yllarramendy
Many thanks to specialist librarians Jyri-Petteri Volkoff and Chris Gurney.