There’s a wonderful and soothing ‘construction’ on display in the National Gallery of Victoria. It is in conjunction with the Monet Exhibition….’ Monet’s Garden’. You don’t have see the exhibition to appreciate this intriguing art work.
A large pond or small lake ( water is nothing new to the gallery -they have it running down walls) has been constructed in the center of the foyer with various sized white plates slowly circulating and generally drifting about on the intense blue water. Every time they meet they give a sort of dong or bell like sound in different registers depending on the size of the plates. As you approach it looks just like a lily pond and I’m sure Monet would have seen the resemblance.
It has been created by French artist-composer Celeste Boursier-Mougenot. She has called it ‘clainamen 2013′
When you listen to my video, focus on the music made by the plates. I love it. I have played my video a few times just for the pleasure of the sounds.
I find it mesmerizing and it reminded me of Indonesian Gamelan music. I haven’t heard that music for a long time but when I heard the sound the white plates made when they touched I remembered hearing a Gamelan orchestra at Victoria University in Wellington. The sound was hypnotic. I came home from the NGV and found some on you tube.
Here are links to three tracks I liked best.
1. 2 3.
I hope you enjoy them. Listen to the video and the plates again and see if you feel the connection.
What:- Celeste Boursier-Mougenot’s in conjunction with Monet’s Garden Exhibition
Until September 8th
Where:- National Gallery of Victoria
180 St Kilda Road CBD
Opening Times:- CLOSED TUESDAYS
Wednesday through to Tuesday 10.am to 5.00pm
Friday to 9.30
The Celeste Boursier-Mougenot is in the main foyer and free viewing.
These are the fees for Monet’s Garden Exhibition:-
Tickets:
Adult $26.00
Child (5-15 years) $10.00
Concession* $22.50
Family (2 adults + 3 children) $65.00
NGV Member Adult $21.00
NGV Member Family (2 adults + 3 children) $50.00
Group Discount $23.40
nonetheless, you command get bought an shakiness over