Noise Meditations

RESEARCH BACKGROUND: 'Noise Meditations' was a soundscape composition developed specifically for 'Now Hear This,' a program of experimental sonic practices curated by prominent artist Philip Samartzis for the Melbourne NOW exhibition. For this project, Lacey created a soundscape composition that drew from his previous installation works, in order to study and recast the sounds for a new listening context. RESEARCH CONTRIBUTION: Through this project, Lacey presents demonstrates the idea of using sonic arts to uncover the meditative potential of the everyday, which he refers to as 'noise meditations.' This was achieved by bringing close attention to a number of transformed urban sounds which were recontextualised as intimate sonic experiences in an exhibition context. This project produces new knowledge by bringing attention to specifically designed sounds that were added to a number of former installation works. It removes the urban design component and focuses in on the sound design innovation, which can then be applied to future public sound works. RESEARCH SIGNIFICANCE: The significance of this project is evidenced by its inclusion in the prestigious Melbourne NOW exhibition which featured 175 exhibits of art, architecture and design. It is the largest show the NGV has mounted. Opening weekend attracted 18,400 visitors. All works for this event were selected on the basis of them offering significant insight into local practices. NGV's design department created three dedicated listening rooms for this event. Lacey's work was presented alongside other prominent national artists including Philip Samartzis, Catherine Clover and Michael Graeve. The event has received extensive local, national and international media attention (see attached articles).