Coming Apart and Falling Together
Apsara Studio 14-16th August 2025
Install Images BM2025 [Laser cut speaker panels 100cm x 80cm]The title for the exhibition emerged as I was trying to describe the simultaneous nature of both needing support and structure as well as the desire to be open and adaptive in my practices of teaching and making art. In both processes, either composing music or teaching students, I try to provide structures that give enough context and clarity to engender an ‘event’. The event is an unexpected outcome, a collaborative, co- constructed way of learning and making as critical, albeit short-lived, bubbles of resistance that transgresses scores, lesson plans and other architectures that we might work within.
Install Image BM2025 [Touch Twice Graphic Score 50cm x 40cm]
The main work in the exhibition is a series of rehearsals/performances recorded at Norwich University of The Arts. In this work, musicians encounter a series of graphic scores (also in the exhibition) that use breath and touch as a basis for making the work. The scores give an indication as to what might happen, but they leave space for the unintended and unexpected. Symbols from the scores have been laser cut into the panel speakers, revealing the structure of the board. These speakers physically surround participants in the exhibition so that the sound which is experienced will differ depending on your position in the exhibition space.
Install Image BM2025 [One Note for Four Breaths Graphic Score 50cm x 40cm]
The scores themselves use materials that are easily changed and adapted. They are collages that suggest textures, layering, movement and direction for those performing them. In addition, there are two large scale images, Resonant Bodies, that depict Helmholtz Resonators, instruments that were used to hear the resonant frequencies in spaces before computer measurement.
Install Image BM2025 [Resonators]
The exhibition forwards listening as a critical act of being with people, space and things. It presents collective learning that focuses on breath, rhythm and timbre as a shared experience. Rather than relying on individual technical facility or virtuosity, the work offers a space that draws on our differing embodied experience of collectively working in a space, allowing for the transformational event of learning together.
Install Image BM2025 [Touch Twice 3D Animation 7” Monitor]
Install Image BM2025 [Touch Twice Graphic Score 50cm x 40cm & Resanator Print 100cmx 80cm]
Acknowledgements
The work in this exhibition was made with the support of all at Apsara Studio, as well as the care of artists whom I admire greatly, and I am thankful for their kindness and generosity – it has been amazing learning with you all.
Musicians
Dr Phil Archer Emma Denby Chris Kemsley Ilona Krawczyk Dave Pullin Sound and Film Denisa Ilie Harry Smith
Laser Cutting
Ed Compton
3D
Erdem Ergin
Nemo Nonnenmacher
Support/Advice/Snacks
Thom Bridge, Jenn Ellis, Molly Pardoe, Joshua Phillips, Ying Tan and all the technicians and staff at Norwich University of the Arts