http://www.experiment1.co.uk
On three sultry nights in July, the sepulchral vault of Peckham's underground venue The Sassoon Gallery will reverberate to the eerily melancholic strains of the infamous Gas Organ.
The Brain-child of founding collaborators Lou Smith and Rufus Burdett, the Gas Organ is a fabulous musical instrument, able to play itself, or be controlled or played remotely.
Constructed from freely available plumbing, electrical and laboratory components, the Gas Organ is a fusion of Art, Science and Engineering, beautiful in its clinical appearance and mesmerising in its auditory effect. Witnesses of the event have their credulity challenged as they view the ephemeral chaotic turbulence of a flame producing such incredible range and depth of sound; how can a science lab experiment evoke such an emotional response as this? I am watching this, but I don't believe it.
Over the three evenings, the Gas Organ will Perform a number of "recitals" which will be location and time specific, unique and un-repeatable. Musicians, Piano Tuners, Painters and Poets, as well as Audience members will be invited to interact with the Organ, Improvising with or creating works inspired by its atmosphere. Huge projections inspired or driven by the 'music' will further enhance the total experience of the event. Recitals will last until the Gas runs out , the plaintive throes of the dying leviathan
subsiding to reveal the un-easy and frantic twitching of the control servos in the echoic space
The whole event will be recorded in high definition, excerpts of which will be compiled into an ongoing film project, documenting the life and works of artists living and working in Peckham. Audience members must agree to this participation, but will be rewarded by taking part in a fascinating interactive experience.
Accessibility of the show to all sectors of society is a key intention of the installation, being of interest to children and adults alike, as well as being truly interactive and educational. At least one of the dates will be an all dayer, to facilitate accessibility to children or those with evening commitments. People from all walks of life, including those with learning, physical or mental disabilities are welcome and will all benefit from time spent with the Gas Organ.
