chickpea(ce) - sound installation, 2016/2025

Chickpea(ce) uses the common legume, rehydrating it in its dried form, as a sound source; a thin membrane of its outer layer creates a popping sound as it expands. 

In its simplicity, the random, lyrical and pleasurable popping sound of chickpea(ce) conjures comforting cultural dishes such as hummus, channa masala and zuppa di checchi. Yet, it reminds us that this important food staple comes from regions of the world threatened by climate uncertainty, environmental damage, and political strife. Bowls of soaking chickpeas set on pedestals are lit and subtly amplified in a gallery space, and highly amplified at a remote area (such as a courtyard or adjacent gallery) to remind visitors that it originates in conflict. 

Chickpea(ce) is also a social action. Hummus (and other dishes) made from the rehydrated chickpeas is to be shared among visitors of the installation and/or provided to the needy through arrangements with local service organizations. 

Chickpea(ce) was originally installed in 2016, at Angels Gate Cultural Center in San Pedro, California, overlooking the Port of Los Angeles.  Chickpeas were donated by Whole Foods, and Angels Gate partnered with Harbor Interfaith Services to provide food for the homeless and needy.

May 2025, chickpea(ce) was installed at the Akademie der Künste (Berlin) for its Welcome In celebration, combined with two performances by violinist Nurit Stark of Carola Bauckholt's Luftgeister.  Hummus from the installation was prepared for the Welcome In reception and donated to Food Share (Berlin).

A video of Nurit Stark performing Luftgeister with chickpea(ce) is below.