SŁUCH A PERCEPCJA PRZESTRZENI
HEARING AND SPACE PERCEPTION

Summary/Abstract: Space is usually perceived and examined as a tridimensional, but visual construct. The article shows it as a process, in which both external (systemic, environmental) and internal (psychological, physical) factors matter. They are important in all kinds of space perception, including the auditory one, which is often disregarded. Meanwhile, it can furnish rich information on one’s point in the space, events happening around, character and function of a place etc. What cannot be ignored is that “auditory spatial awareness” [Blesser, 2007] influences people’s behavior. This is the reason why architects, governments and artists start to pay attention to this phenomenon, while social researchers do surveys. Their cooperation can be seen in Evidence-Based Design architectonic trend or Project for Public Spaces. Similar, but stricter requirements are set by the European Commission. But surrounding sounds are not only damaging and disturbing. Many of them are helpful, provide information, give solace and many are parts of soundmarks, “acoustic landmarks”; are components of identity. Gathering sounds, often ascribed to places, became a new kind of entertainment and artistic activity.

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