Sound Sculptures in Public Spaces

Speaker Sculptures by Benoît Maubrey

Abstract

Speaker Sculptures is a series of works by Benoît Maubrey, created 1983–2015. They are all large-scale architectural constructions (often modeled after existing historical buildings or building types) built of recycled loudspeakers. The public connected to the works by calling a designated number, or using Bluetooth or WiFi. The content of these interactions comprises the sonic component of the work.

This article investigates the artistic strategy of connecting public and private spaces via acoustic media, realized in Speaker Sculptures, and its applicability to urban sound design. It discusses this artistic strategy in general rather than particular artworks, therefore a number of artistic considerations important for Speaker Sculptures are outside the scope of the paper. Further, a number of claims are hypothetical and may go beyond what was realized in these particular artworks. In other words, this article is focused on the possible effects Speaker Sculptures could have on urban life, should they become a permanent feature of the cityscape.