Aural Projection
(Aural Projection appears at 5:51, 7:14 and 8:30)
Even before Seen Not Heard, the phenomenon of synthenasia was an intriguing influence on the way I lived. As a practicing artist who also makes, investigates, and listens constantly to music, I am always eager to join the two whenever circumstances allow.
Aural Projection was a performance of my own invented (and nameless) instrument: an experimental creation of welded metal and found objects. In the same way that sound waves emanate from a source, I used the suitable analogy of light to translate this effect into the visible spectrum. My array of instruments spread out behind the central wheel; two pieces of neon illuminating it from behind. Throughout the performance I would spin the wheel to create a veritable whirlpool of light; metal forms blending with colors to create a visual nod to the swirling arrangements of sounds. Two sealed vinyl tubes acted as curved rainsticks, making the wheel itself one of the instruments as it spun. The light from the neon tubes begins at a source and spreads into the environment (just like music). The source of the light is just in front of the performer, manifesting the instance where music is given outwards from the musician to the audience.
I performed the piece twice; at Light Shows at Miami University and Pratt at Munson-Williams-Proctor. The second performance also incorporated an electric guitar and computer software, in addition to the sculpture's windchimes, drum and rainsticks. A small electric fan was mounted alongside the chimes (consisting of fine silverware and cut metal tubes) to create a base texture for the music. The video I made documents the second Light Show, much of the footage shows work form other students, as well as some preparations.
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All Work © Benjamin Andrew 2009