Learning Objectives

Students will be able to demonstrate fine craftsmanship, an intense and investigative approach to materials and rigorous conceptual thought. Students will be able to create a work of art that not only engages the visual, but also the auditory. Students will be able to give examples of the works and processes of the artists listed below.

Materials

Materials to be chosen based on your project.

Time

On Calendar

Homework

Studio Work
Research artists listed below
At least 10 Sketches in sketchbook

Process

Students will create a three-dimensional work of art that creates visual interest while also creating something for the ears. The goal of this project is to push the student in terms of conceptual development. Your final piece should not only look nice but it must make the viewer aware of the noises and sounds around them. One of the most famous pieces similar to this project is John Cage’s “4 minutes 33 seconds”. Cage filled an entire orchestra hall with people and a full orchestra. For the above mentioned time, the orchestra remained absolutely silent. The music was not what the instrumentalists were doing, it was the noise around the audience. From the rustle of gum wrappers to a persistent cough, Cage’s work made the audience pay attention to the things around them. That is your goal. Whether it be through loud, obnoxious sounds or the gentle whisper of a breeze, make the viewer pay attention.

Your project may use any materials you like, but good craftsmanship is a must. Your work may be activated through a hand crank that the viewer must turn, a piece that is only activated when the door opens, or a work that is made to create sound when the wind blows. You may even use motion sensors to start a cd player and create a digital sound if you wish. Simple examples of these would be a door chime, bells hung on a business door, wind chimes etc. Your project should be much more complicated than these simple examples. It can be either outdoors or indoors.

Resources

John Cage, Bernie Lubell, Sound Sculpture, Sonic Arboretum, Luke Jerram, Odd Music, Bill Fontana, Sound Installation, Sound Art Thesis Paper (Excellent Read), Sound Art (Wikipedia)