The CymaSpace Mission
We make arts, cultural, and media events accessible and inclusive to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing through technology, education, and community outreach.
Who We Are
CymaSpace is a nonprofit, Deaf-owned technology hub based in Portland, Oregon. We hire and enable Deaf performers, technicians, volunteers, and staff.
CymaSpace is deeply influenced by cymatics—the study of translating sound waves into visible geometric and tactile phenomena. We "make sound visible" by producing live performances, artistic installations, and broadcasted media using accessible technology and providers. This includes Open Captioning, sound-activated LED arrays, American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, and Deaf performing artists.
We advocate for the Deaf community to partnering art and cultural organizations across the country. We raise awareness, offer consultation, and provide technical services to help other nonprofits provide communication access for physical venues and virtual broadcasts alike.
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Equity
We believe in creating an environment of equity by addressing the systemic barriers and communication needs faced by Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing people.
Diversity
We promote diversity because Deafness intersects with many other cultural backgrounds, racial identities, LGBTQ+ communities, and disability groups.
Inclusion
We foster inclusion where both Deaf and hearing attendees, artists, technicians, and educators collaborate on equal, mutually enriching footing.
What is Cymatics?
Named by Swiss physician Hans Jenny from the Greek word kýma (meaning "wave"), Cymatics is the study of visible sound and vibration. When sound frequencies are passed through physical mediums such as water, sand, or iron particles on a Chladni plate, striking geometric nodal patterns emerge.
At CymaSpace, we apply this scientific principle to everyday life. By translating musical vibration into synchronized light colors and tactile furniture, sound ceases to be an exclusive auditory gate—becoming an open, multi-sensory landscape everyone can experience together.