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This image shows an art installation in a gallery space with white walls and dark wood floors. The main text on the wall reads: “Shhh! They’re speaking.” This is written in large green letters, suggesting a quiet, attentive atmosphere focused on listening. On the left side, there are two green leafy plants in a shared, organically shaped ceramic planter placed on a small wooden stand. Near them, a small blue JBL speaker sits on the floor. To the right, another plant in a similarly styled ceramic planter sits on a square wooden side table. A small gold desk lamp with a glowing bulb is placed next to this plant, gently illuminating it. On the right wall above the table, there’s a small electronic setup mounted directly onto the wall — visible wires connect a few small circuit boards (likely a Raspberry Pi and a sensor). Around the electronics, several white paper labels explain the steps or parts of the project. Higher on the right wall, a third plant in a clear hanging vessel is suspended near the tech setup, its vines trailing down. There’s also a small block of printed text titled “Project Statement” on the center-left wall, likely explaining the concept behind the project. Overall, the installation gives the impression of creating a connection between plants, technology, and sound — making the plants’ subtle signals “audible” to humans.

Shhh!…They’re Speaking

Eleanor Heibel

Mixed Media

Undergraduate

Problem statement:

This project aims to bridge the growing divide between humans and nature by revealing the often-overlooked complexity of plant life through a tangible representation of plant sentience. By integrating biophilic product design, functional ceramics, and sound technology, it offers modern consumers a new way to meaningfully engage with plants in their homes. At the core of the project is a sound system that translates plants' electrical responses into audible feedback, giving them a ""voice.""

When we perceive plants as sentient beings—with feelings and intelligence—we form deeper connections with them, fostering empathy and understanding. This shift encourages users to reevaluate their relationship with nature, inspiring more mindful and sustainable lifestyle choices. Ultimately, the project challenges the conventional view of plants as mere decorative objects and opens the possibility of recognizing their intrinsic vitality.