stereo pair (2021) is a permanent outdoor solid-state sound installation installed in John Crank Gardens in Brunel University London. The work consists of six pre-cast concrete forms combined to form two interrelating Left and Right sound channels, that invite users to listen to ambient sound within the John Crank Gardens.

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Stereo Pair , six pre-cast concrete sections on sub-ground plinths

Stereo Pair [L channel], three of six pre-cast concrete sections

Stereo Pair [R channel], three of six pre-cast concrete sections

Stereo Pair [L channel], three pre-cast reinforced concrete sections

Stereo Pair [L channel], with galvanised steel bolt-on speaker cab attatched

Stereo Pair light study, 3D printed maquettes and cast concrete

Stereo Pair light study, 3D printed maquettes and cast concrete

Drawing of modular construct for two listening devices 2020

Drawing of modular construct for two listening devices 2020

Drawing of modular construct for two listening devices 2020

Stereo pair – formwork being delivered prior to casting, 2020

Stereo pair mould and formwork preparation (2020)

Stereo pair revealing cast in mould and formwork (2020)

Stereo pair revealing cast in mould and formwork (2020)

Stereo pair casts curing and finishing (2020)

Stereo pair setting out foundations of (2020)

Early example of pre-radar listening device

Stereo pair, adding aggregate from demolished John Crank Building to foundations, 2020

Stereo pair with foundations poured 2020

Stereo pair lifting cured section (2020)

stereo pair makes reference to pre-radar listening devices and sound mirrors that were installed along the south coast of England and connected by a direct telephone line to local RAF Northolt; civil engineering of the great western corridor including the nearby M25 / M4; and the famous locally produced HMV ‘Morning Glory’ Gramophone horn. The works stereo configuration focuses on the nearby invention of stereo sound recording and the worlds first stereo film Trains at Hayes (1935). The pre-cast concrete elements include aggregate recycled from the former John Crank Building, famously used as a location for the ludovico institute in Stanley Kubricks a clockwork orange demolished in July 2019 whilst Phil Coy was in residence at Brunel University. The concrete modules and foundations contain aggregate from the demolished building.

The structure of each listening device mirrors its environment and the architectural heritage of original Brutalist Brunel University Campus. The two structures work as solid state amplifiers, to create a social space for listening and performance. With specially designed speaker cabinets bolted on, the conical forms become active amplifiers, empty vessels inviting the gardens to be used as an egalitarian performance space. Their stereo placement invites sight and sound lines across John Crank Gardens.

 

 

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