Delve into 'Babhi–bεrat 21r,' a thought-provoking sound sculpture by Cameroonian artist Em’kal Eyongakpa, presented at the Oude Kerk. This ambitious work utilized strategically placed wooden platforms to transmit unprocessed sound recordings, creating a multisensory experience. Visitors encountered a unique interplay of natural and external sounds resonating within the sacred architecture of Amsterdam's oldest building.
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Oude Kerk presented 'Babhi–bεrat 21r,' a sound sculpture by Kenyan-born artist Em’kal Eyongakpa. This special project, created for Amsterdam's oldest building, featured pulsating wooden platforms that transformed raw sound recordings into a physical, spatial experience.
The Oude Kerk presented 'Babhi–bεrat 21r,' a significant sound sculpture by Em’kal Eyongakpa, a Cameroonian artist known for his exploration of sound and space. This specific work, presented as part of the 2020-2021 Special Project, was a fragment from his series 'babhi-manyɛp/ babhi-bawɛt,' which translates to 'waterways/oilways' from the Kenyang language. Eyongakpa's installation utilized pulsating wooden platforms strategically placed within the Oude Kerk, the city's oldest building. These platforms acted as conduits, disseminating unprocessed sound recordings captured by the artist during nocturnal rites and processions through the city. The intention was to translate these sonic experiences into a tangible, physical reality for visitors, allowing natural and external sounds to resonate within the sacred space, thereby creating both a personal and collective sensory engagement. The presentation was made in collaboration with the Hartwig Art Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering experimentation and creativity in contemporary art. The foundation supports artists in producing ambitious new works, which are subsequently acquired and donated to the Dutch National Collection, aiming for a lasting societal contribution. Em’kal Eyongakpa, who holds a background in plant biology and ecology, has established a notable career with his traveling research spaces and autonomous art centers. His work has been exhibited and experienced globally, and he has been a resident at the Rijksakademie in Amsterdam.
Booking for this exhibition was available through the Oude Kerk's official ticketing portal. Visitors were encouraged to book in advance to secure their visit to the exhibition and the church premises.
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