Nada Brahma: The Universe Is Sound

In Hermetic philosophy, the Universal Principle of Vibration states that everything, every atom, object, and organism, is in constant motion. Everything in the universe is vibrating at its own unique frequency, all part of one cosmic symphony. We are all connected through the vibrations of energy and matter. When we stop and look deeply, we can start to understand how our thoughts and actions affect not just ourselves, but all life around us.

Arion makes these frequencies and vibrations visible through the science of Cymatics (from Ancient Greek: ‘κῦμα’ =‘wave’): the study of wave phenomena in a medium like water. Sound and musical frequencies set water into vibration, revealing intricate patterns that resonate with symbols found in ancient wisdom traditions around the world.

If we look around us we can see these shapes in the very small (for example in phytoplankton), the very large (the movement patterns of planets) and everything inbetween (a sunflower). When sound and water are in resonance, these patterns manifest as harmonious geometrical shapes (standing waves), revealing the creating power of music and sound. Determined by many parameters such as frequency, type of music, amplitude and amount of water, this series of different shapes came into existence: the “Water Sound Mandalas – Collection I”.

Using these elements of water, music and light, Arion makes the invisible visible, revealing a glimpse of the architecture of life. This is not artificial intelligence, but the natural intelligence of vibration, shaping our physical world.

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About the Artist


Arion de Munck (1984) is an interdisciplinary artist of Indo-Chinese and Dutch heritage who graduated from the Royal Academy of Art, The Hague.

Working across two-dimensional, spatial, and interactive forms, his practice is unified by a continuous exploration of the fusion of image and sound.

A deep affinity with nature, geometry, architecture, science, and spirituality characterizes his multifaceted practice. Through his work, he aspires to build bridges that connect people with the insight of Inter-Being: our interconnectedness with all forms of life.

Alongside the development of interactive art installations, this has led to a profound fascination with the phenomenon of Cymatics, the visualization of sound waves in water. Especially in a context with live music. 
More recently, he has further developed this exploration through private masterclasses with cymatics pioneer Alexander Lauterwasser. Now he wishes to share the sense of wonder he experiences doing this work.

Drawing on this expertise, Arion is currently developing Hadra Immersive in collaboration with the Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra, bringing together centuries-old Sufi musical traditions with contemporary art and the science of cymatics. The performance will premiere on 19 February 2027 at Tivoli in Utrecht.