Soft Tensions
Sao Ohtake
Advisor: Yuliya Parshina-Kottas
A series of fabric sculptures for expressing interpersonal connections that produces different breathing sound patterns based on how visitors physically interact with them (through hugging, touching, or gentle pressure).

Project Description
Soft Tensions consists of two human-sized fabric sound sculptures that explore interpersonal connection. Each sculpture emits different breathing patterns in response to physical interaction—through hugging, touching, or gentle pressure. Living in New York, I’ve witnessed how global tensions can strain everyday relationships. Yet, amid conflict, I’m drawn to quiet gestures—like a hug or shared stillness—that speak beyond words. My work focuses on these non-verbal moments through tactile materials, sound, and vibration. The sculptures invite viewers to engage through sensation, emphasizing shared vulnerability and presence over interpretation.
Technical Details
■ This artwork consists of 2 soft sound sculptures(each of them has 5.9ft hight). ■ Each sculpture contains a speaker, pressure sensor, and Feather M0 + Feather Music board
Research/Context
Last spring at ITP, conversations around war and political issues became more frequent.
During that time, I witnessed a moment when two people—friends until just the day before—suddenly stopped speaking to each other due to conflicting ideologies.
Yet, because they belonged to the same community, complete avoidance wasn’t an option.
This prompted me to observe how they navigated the resulting tension, and how, over time, they found ways to reconnect and rebuild their relationship.