New Artist Commission for The Curve, Barbican, London

French artist Céleste Boursier-Mougenot creates works by drawing on the rhythms of daily life to produce sound in unexpected ways. When stunning video work comes around, you simply can’t not pay attention. Now I know this is an installation dealing with nature and sound, but the video documentation is ridiculously compelling and makes me want more. What is it about nature co-mingling with the artificial or built landscape that is just so intriguing? (Recall Doug Aitken’s Migrations Video in the last year at both 303 Gallery NYC and Regen Projects, LA).

French Artist Céleste Boursier-Mougenot: The Curve Installation Details

For his installation in The Curve, Boursier-Mougenot creates a walk-though aviary for a flock of zebra finches, furnished with electric guitars and other musical instruments. As the birds go about their routine activities, perching on or feeding from the various pieces of equipment, they create a captivating, live soundscape.

The exhibition runs 27 February 2010 – 23 May 2010 at The Curve, Barbican, London.

Bird Art: Doug Aitken’s Migrations Video Featuring Animals in the Built Landscape

Doug Aitken: Migrations Video Still

Bird Art: Doug Aitken’s Migrations Video Clip