Laser-cut acrylic, copper wire, theremin electronics
footprint variable, individual units variable, maximum 0.75m x 0.6m diameter
Macquarie University Art Collection – installed in the Jim Piper building (2025).
Ariel consists of a series of eight laser-cut acrylic sculptures, all of which have a strong morphological relationship to microscopic marine forms sharing symmetry with the structure of primitive Radiolaria, countless millions of which form the geological strata of the oldest continent (Australia).
From a philosophical perspective, the work forms a synergy of many influences and referents. I am drawn to an image of the Australian environment, in which the terrain is criss-crossed by a network of voices, be these the ‘song-lines’ of the Traditional Owners, the frenzy of insect and bird communication, or the lacework of technological communication links, upon which we are so dependant. Ariel attempts a sonic-mapping of voices lost in the aether, of song long settled in the dust, and inscribed into geological strata.
Listen to a sample sound here – or use the QR code.
