Art, architecture and music intertwine in a new exhibition at the Storefront for Art and Architecture gallery. Dutch artist Allard van Hoorn has challenged the conventional form of art in the gallery's 007_Urban_Songline installation. The space on 97 Kenmare St. has been transformed into a rare and interactive piece of musical artwork.
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The gallery's facade is divided into 12 moveable panels, each rotating vertically or horizontally. Connected to the walls are strings that create sounds recorded by microphones in the gallery.
When a patron moves one wall, the entire Storefront is activated, producing audible sounds not only for the participant, but those walking along the street as well. The curious passers-by soon enter the store to investigate as well.
Visitors are encouraged to push the walls labeled "play me" while stepping through openings in the web of strings. They can create a personal score through touch and movement.
The sleek and modernist design of solid gray, concrete walls open to reveal a vibrant red gallery space filled with white strings. The style simplifies the presentation but engenders curiosity.
The invitation to play is boldly printed in navy letters, but instructions are missing. It is unclear how and what a passer-by should play. This could encourage creativity, but in general seems to intimidate unsure participants as many curious city wanderers peered inside the gallery.
"The design is intriguing, but I had no idea what to do," tourist Amy Radin said.
But as soon as one person figured out the trick, the installation attracted many visitors, happy to create unique, spur-of-the- moment music in an unusual setting.
Guests are invited back at 5 p.m. daily to hear a compilation of the music created throughout the day. StoreFront is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The exhibition runs through Feb. 18.
