Michelle Poon's "Muse": A Conceptual Exhibition Exploring Musical Perception

Winner of the Golden A' Design Award, Muse is a unique exploration of how humans perceive music.

Inspired by the Muses of Greek mythology, Poon's project explores the concept of perception. Just as each of the nine Muses is unique, so too is each person's perception of music. This universal yet individual experience is at the heart of Muse, which invites participants to explore music visually and interactively.

The exhibition features three installations, each offering a different way to experience music. Two of the installations provide sensory experiences, while the third offers a logical interaction. The installations are made from thermo-active fabric, acrylic tiles, and Antalis Skin Paper, showcasing Poon's innovative use of materials.

Located in the Hong Kong Museum of Art Gallery 4, the exhibition also includes a range of printed materials, such as posters, brochures, and tickets, all of which align with the exhibition's branding. The project, which began in September 2019 and was completed in June 2020, is a testament to Poon's meticulous planning and execution.

Despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, Poon managed to create an immersive experience that encourages participants to explore their own perception of music. The project also faced creative challenges, particularly in translating raw data into infographics or coded graphics. However, Poon overcame these hurdles by adopting a simple and minimalistic approach.

In conclusion, Michelle Poon's "Muse" is a unique exploration of musical perception that combines innovative design with interactive experiences. The project, which won the Golden A' Design Award, is a testament to Poon's creativity and her ability to push the boundaries of design. As Poon herself notes, "designers should be aware of how perception affects them in practice."