Sounds are sharp and clean, absorbed by the diagonal shapes protruding from the walls, there is nowhere for the reflection of sound, even the floor is absorbent. We talk and listen to sounds that we make with materials, music and speech and document our thoughts with words and sketches. There seems to be a pressure, similar to being on a plane or under the water, a thickness in the air between our bodies and the wall. There is a sense of presence as you might feel in a church. Without external noises, space and structure for sound to carry we hear in a profound way. Is this what real sound is? The scratching of a pen, I can see the letters and shapes appear. I scratched my cheek and the sound is almost violent.
Sounds expressed visually in the architecture of the Chamber using VR and Tilt Brush
My work considers the significance of scientific imagery as metaphors for human existence. I draw from both the microscopic and scientific images in a micro to macro process of making. I believe this brings a subconscious connection through which we can communicate.
Scientists agree that everything is energy, and everything is connected. I feel this passionately in my work and indeed my life. In my work I am exploring the crystallisation of tears as a process that occurs beyond our sight but once demonstrated it forms a portal to communicate with the viewer on a subconscious level.
Ideas come from momentary human interactions such as the response to Voyagers iconic blue dot image which began my journey into the study of the human visceral response of crying and the crystallisation of tears. I have developed the memory of a rock climb into a sculpture and a tear into a tactile object that sits in the hand.
As a multidisciplinary artist my choice of medium is key to resolving the work. I develop subjects often through print processes to ultimately create sculpture. I use many different materials such as paper, metal, Perspex and resin, often pushing them to breaking point as I explore their connection with narrative further. The process becomes the art, it is not always aesthetically pleasing but it is a direct result of my practice. The end result morphing into a piece of work that I could not have envisaged at the start of the process.
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Babs Smith Multidisciplinary Artist 