Contraption by Peter Batchelor & Ian Bilson
This installation presents a complex imaginary machine hidden within a series of largely featureless columns. It seems there are gears and pulleys embedded within these columns, and bizarre mechanical processes going on busily within and between them. You can activate these processes by pressing buttons on the central pillar, exploring the machine and perhaps playing it like an instrument. You might trigger a series of events in quick succession, and sometimes there will be a lot going on. But there is still nothing to see. You will have to listen: this is an acousmatic contraption, after all.
For more information on the concept and development of the installation visit: www.peterb.dmu.ac.uk/contraption.html
Peter Batchelor is a composer and sound artist living in Birmingham, UK. His output ranges from fixed-medium acousmatic compositions for concert diffusion to large-scale multi-channel installation work. www.peterbatchelor.com
Ian Bilson is a sculptor, designer and landscaper living in Birmingham, UK. His work involves the exploration of affordable and/or repurposed materials, and their transformation into aesthetic objects. www.ibdesigner.com
Drops by Tony James Morton
Drops is an audio/visual, interactive system that reflects on humankind’s relationship with the natural world and the need for unity in tackling climate change. A single water drop is displayed, taking centre stage of the piece. This drop then moves, changes and distorts as it reacts to the accompanying soundscape. The piece is generative, constantly creating music in real-time. Part performance, part installation, the piece allows multiple viewers the ability to connect directly to the work and collaborate with how the piece reacts over time.
Tony James Morton is a musician, composer and sound artist whose work focuses on real-time systems aesthetics. These systems created have rules and structures, but within the confines of these boundaries there is enough room for improvisation, chance and probability. This allows for a different interpretation each time, creating unique experiences of sound.