Microtonal Wall by Tristan Perich

Microtonal Wall by Tristan Perich at MoMA

Microtonal Wall by Tristan Perich

Microtonal Wall is a work by the sound artist Tristan Perich. The work consists of 1500 one-bit-speakers, each playing a specific tone, within a total span of 4 octaves. The speakers are mounted on an large aluminum plate. From a distance the collection of frequencies turns into white noise. However, as the visitor approaches the work, each tone can be singled out.

I’ve so far only seen a video documentation of the work, but it gave me a good idea of it. I sure found it very appealing, and wish I could approach it, slowly, leaving the white noise behind and listen to the change of tones while moving along the work. I strongly believe I would like the sound of it.

 

Detail of Microtonal Wall by Tristan Perich

Detail of Microtonal Wall by Tristan Perich

At present the work is presented in the sound exhibition, Soundings: A Contemporary Score, at MoMA in New York. As a matter of fact, it is MoMA:s first major exhibition presenting works by sound artists. The exhibition runs from August 10 to November 3, 2013. Visit the exhibition website.

    Picture rights belong to the artist unless otherwise stated

    POST: 16 September, 2013 · Artwork, Exhibition