Ariel

Ariel
2000
laser-cut acrylic, copper wire, theremin electronics
footprint variable, individual units variable, maximum 0.75m x 0.6m diameter
Macquarie University Art Collection

In its original form, Ariel was presented as an immersive soundscape installation. However, in consultation with the artist, we have chosen to offer a prerecorded version of the soundscape accessible via QR code. This ensures that the necessary quiet environment of this study and examination area is preserved.

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.

Ariel was a part of the Orbital exhibition held simultaneously at the Lux Gallery, London, and the Centre for Contemporary Photography, Melbourne (July and August 2000). Orbital was curated by the Experimenta Organisation as part of Australia’s celebration of the Centenary of Federation.

Each object supports a digital theremin circuit, amplifier and speaker, and the structure itself acts as the physical former for the antennae windings, which are sensitive to bodily proximity. Thus, on approach the objects respond acoustically, and moreover the entire installation operates as a ‘swarm’ through a form of electromagnetic coupling – producing clouds of audio ‘turbulence’ as a visitor approaches the installation.

From a philosophical perspective, the work forms a synergy of many influences and referents. Helyer says, “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.”