2023 | sound installation: home appliances, vibration speakers, music
Photo by Evert Palmets
A work inspired by consumer society—washing machine, toaster, microwave oven and electric stove playing music specially composed for them. It is the final thesis of my studies at the sculpture and installation department at the Estonian Academy of Arts.
Many thanks to Hans-Günter Lock, Reet Aus, Merle Küttim, Tarvo Niine, Sten Saarits, Taavi Mets, Hans Talgre (Weerec OÜ), Brigita Reinert, Liina Lill, Alina Bürkland, Aurelia Grace, Eva-Erle Lilleaed/KUMU.
Duration: 3’50”
Tutors: Taavi Talve, Taavi Piibemann
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Photos: Evert Palmets
Variations of Quartet
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Technical and organisational details
NB! Please consult the artist before making any major decisions based on the following details.
Description
The visitor sees four household items in the room — a washing machine, an electric stove, a microwave oven, and a toaster. The interiors of these items have been removed for acoustic reasons, and each one has a vibration speaker attached to it. Together, they perform a piece of music, each playing its own part — the washing machine provides the bass, the stove acts as a drum, and so on.
Duration: 3’50”
The installation can be configured to start playing only when a visitor enters the room. In this mode, the cycle plays to completion, then stops. It will begin again the next time movement is detected in the room.
Lights can be attached to the items, blinking in sync with the music (see this video).
It is also possible to organise short concerts using these household items, featuring more than one piece of music. At least six different pieces have been composed for this artwork, each lasting approximately 3–5 minutes (see this video).
Room requirements
Minimum room size: 6×6 m
As quiet as possible.
As dark as possible, in case exhibited with the light show.
Space to hide a computer and audio equipment — minimum internal dimensions approx. 60 × 60 × 60 cm, with a power outlet nearby.
Possibility to mount a small motion sensor on the wall or ceiling.
Security
Basic security is required, as the installation includes a computer and audio equipment.
Transportation
To be discussed…
Lauri Lest 