Beaconsfield, Soundtrap II: Leafcutter John

Beaconsfield is well known as an international commissioner of new works in the field of sound art and for its track record for presenting and promoting experimental sound works and events. Last year the organisation launched a new series of sonic commissions - Soundtrap - scheduled to coincide with the nationwide annual event Architecture Week.

The PRS Foundation is supporting this important new initiative by financially assisting the commission of a new work by Leafcutter John, who will transform the 19th century floor of the Upper Space into an instrument. The sonic installation is open to the public during June and July and the artist performed live, in concert during Architecture Week.

Using the audible and inaudible sound created by movmeent in and on the floorboards, via finely positioned floor sensors, Leafcutter has developed a multi-layered computer programme to create this innovative installation. During the exhibition, the floor is symbiotically linked to software which he has specially written to coax out sonic stories, old and new, with the arrival of each visitor in the room.  Leafcutter has tested the entire floor to reveal its inherent acoustic properties. An archive of sounds has been collected from the research period, which includes noises created by natural heat and moisture induced movement in the floor and human actions upon the floor.

As part of the residency Leafcutter, together with a skilled group of musicians, improvised a performance, demonstrating the sensitive and sonic properties of the floor.

Beaconsfield provides a resource for the development and presentation of contemporary art. Founded in 1994, Beaconsfield takes a collaborative approach to commissioning and the innovative outcomes which are often seminal within an artist¹s oeuvre. The annual programme of exhibitions, events and educational provision for HE and local schools, is co-directed by founders David Crawforth and Naomi Siderfin, who have collaborated as freelance artist-curators for fifteen years.

Website: www.beaconsfield.ltd.uk

Music type: Electronic
Funding Scheme: Live Connections
Region: London

Contact:

Rachel Fleming-Mulford (Administrator)
Beaconsfield 22 Newport Street Vauxhall London SE11 6AY
info@beaconsfield.ltd.uk