“Channelling” is a kinetic audiovisual project, in which a collection of motor devices salvaged from obsolete and discarded consumer technology is reanimated by environmental sound recordings. In turn, this produces new sounds from the devices, which are amplifed using various microphones and techniques.
The recordings feature seemingly mundane sound phenomena that occur unpredictably and irregularly in everyday life – passing traffic, wind, doors closing – and also sounds of other machines malfunctioning. Because of this, the movement of the devices is random, variable, and autonomous. This means the relationship between performer and devices is a collaboration rather than a master and servant type situation.
“Channelling Reduction” follows the trend of technology to miniaturise as it evolves, becoming smaller and lighter, but more powerful.
Simon Whetham:
Since 2005 Simon Whetham has worked with sonic activity as a material. He often uses environmental sound, employing a variety of methods and techniques in order to obtain often unnoticed and obscured sonic phenomena. He also explores ways of creating physical traces of sound and transforming energy forms.
Whetham performs and exhibits internationally, has received a large number of commissions and awards, has many published composed works and regularly collaborates with other artists. His practice also covers giving active listening, field recording and technology repurposing workshops.
