Variable Frequencies is a sound installation investigating process and
interaction. Building on the technology of radio to consider reflexive actions, the installation explores sonic, social and political implications of transmission. In turn, highlighting the fragile relationship between physical presence and invisible channels of communication, power, and control.
Harvestworks
June 17-22, 2019
2-5pm
Variable Frequencies is a sound installation investigating process and
interaction. Building on the technology of radio to consider reflexive actions, the installation explores sonic, social and political implications of transmission. Through a unification of physical and ephemeral states, fixed elements are encouraged to evolve into relational systems. Considering the ways in which shared spaces derive interactivity from participation, the project addresses the interdependent nature of affect and effect in several ways, asking how the presence of a listener can potentially redefine environment. The prominent visual element of the installation is an extended length of copper wire zigzagging across the room. It is both an artistic intervention and utilitarian structure, functioning as an FM radio antenna to broadcast a site-specific audio composition to FM radio receivers in the gallery space. Nearby bodies—knowing and unknowing participants—have the potential to alter the effectiveness of this process, introducing bursts of noise or intermittent connections to commercial radio
stations. This interference highlights a fragile relationship between physical presence and invisible channels of communication, power, and control.
Angus Tarnawsky is an Australian artist and musician. His work considers perceptions and perspectives of sound and space, existing in many hybrid forms across composition, performance, and installation. Recent exhibitions and presentations have been hosted by Pioneer Works, Fridman Gallery, and Wave Farm (New York), Het Nieuwe Instituut (Rotterdam/New York), RBMA (Toronto/Montreal), Luminato Festival (Toronto), and Next Wave Festival (Melbourne). He collaborates with a variety of artists to release records, organize events, and facilitate community engagement, often under the auspice of In Context Music, a curatorial project active since 2013. Originally from Tasmania, he studied improvisation and electroacoustic music at the Victorian College of the Arts in Melbourne before relocating to North America in 2010. Based in New York City for almost a decade, he is currently completing an Interdisciplinary MFA at OCAD University in Toronto, Canada.
angustarnawsky.com
incontextmusic.com