A series of interactive and visually stunning exhibitions which look at the significance of music, sound and noise in the Arts, launch at The Public on 21 October 2011.
Featuring work from internationally renowned artists alongside commissions from highly regarded regional artists, The Art of Noise, celebrates the artistic influence of music and noise, and its impact on cultural identity. The exhibition, which runs until 15 January 2012, features a variety of art forms including, photography, film, digital and interactive artwork.
John Lennon My Generation – image by Harry Goodwin
Exhibition highlights include touring V&A exhibition, My Generation: The Glory Years of British Rock – a selection of photographs by Harry Goodwin from behind the scenes of Top of the Pops from 1964 to 1973. Goodwin was resident photographer on the iconic BBC show, whose images captured the charisma and style of every chart-topping rock musicians of that era, both on stage and behind the scenes. The fascinating collection of over 60 photos include images of Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Stevie Wonder and The Jackson 5.
Home of Metal. Image by Steve Gerrard
Photographs by Steve Gerrard will also be featured in the exhibition throughout the autumn. Part of the regional Home of Metal project which celebrates Birmingham and the Black Country as the birthplace of heavy metal, the local rock photographer has captured images of heavy metal fans from across the midlands. From teens to grandparents, each with their unique and individual style, the collection of images highlight the passion of music lovers within the much celebrated genre.
The Art of Noise exhibition, which is free to visit, will also feature a number of exciting interactive exhibits where visitors will be able to participate in the artwork.
Renowned audio-visual artist, Jony Easterby, has been commissioned by The Public to produce a spectacular sound and light based artwork that will reside in the building’s Black Gallery. Carillon Shadows, explores the relationship between sound, space, darkness and light. As visitors enter the darkened room they will become immersed with different sounds and light designed to disorientate, entertain and stimulate the imagination.
The family friendly exhibition also sees new interactive work come to the gallery – Bandwidth, by Josh Nimoy and The Digital Jukebox, by Steve Chamberlain. Bandwidth, by the New York artist who helped develop the special effects on blockbuster, Tron Legacy, allows people to create their own musical masterpieces with fellow visitors through linked up touch screens. Chamberlain’s Digital Jukebox is a fun music player featuring a selection of curated music by local bands and musicians chosen by the general public.
Local films, Made in Birmingham: Reggae Punk Bhangra and Motor City Music Years will be also be screened throughout the Art of Noise, providing a fascinating insight into music influences in the region, and Foghorn, a project commissioned by local arts organisation Multistory, celebrates Sandwell heritage with a huge replica foghorn which naturally amplifies people’s voices to make them sound enormous.
Linda Saunders, Managing Director of The Public said, “The Art of Noise is a fascinating series of exhibitions that compliment the rich musical heritage of the region and will no doubt revoke fond memories of times gone by. By introducing interactive elements to the exhibition we’re providing visitors with the opportunity to experience art in a fun and enjoyable way.”
The Art of Noise will be exhibited from 21 October 2011 to 15 January 2012, Wednesday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm and Sunday, 11am – 3pm. The exhibition is free to visit.
Throughout the autumn The Public will be hosting a number of family workshops and events themed around the Art of Noise.
For more information visit www.thepublic.com or call 0121 533 7161.
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