INSPIRATION

The inspiration for this instrument comes from the teachings of Rumi. Rumi frequently spoke of love as a boundless force that dissolves all religious, ethnic, and national differences. This instrument incorporates symbols of peace and love, such as a dove with an olive branch, a candle, and a lotus. The use of various woods represents racial and climatic diversity. The heart shaped headstock and the letter V symbolize love and global unity, reflecting the connection of humanity through divine love.

UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Thousand Nations of Love instrument blends cultural symbols and innovation to convey love, peace, and unity. Made from rare woods from around the world, it reflects racial and climatic diversity. The heart shaped headstock features vibrating strings above the nut an innovative idea. Symbols of peace such as a dove with an olive branch, a candle, a lotus, and the letter V are included. Frets pass through the neck, symbolizing liberation, and tuning pegs are inspired by girls, boys, women, and men.

PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY

In the creation of this instrument, precise and complex woodworking techniques were employed, with each piece carefully cut and positioned at specific angles to ensure structural integrity and flawless sound. The instrument’s unique curves require precise,seamless joints for optimal acoustic performance. High quality tonewoods from around the world, including Kikam, Walnut, Ebony, and others, were chosen for their acoustic and aesthetic properties. The tuning pegs, designed in four sizes, symbolize gender and age diversity.

CREATIVE / RESEARCH CHALLENGE

The biggest challenge in constructing this instrument was placing wooden pieces with irregular sides and various angles while maintaining their structural integrity. This process symbolized the hardships and ups and downs of human history.Another challenge was preserving the natural patterns of the wood, as even an extra millimeter of sanding could alter them. The headstock design also posed technical difficulties, including angles, tuning peg placement, and string entry points. I set the project aside for three years, but with more experience, I returned to it and eventually completed it.