Things are progressing well. I've been spending time sorting out technical details for the acoustic mirror (one not two - that's decided). Central to this process and to the mirror's construction is Desmond Brett. He's a sculptor (Slade MFA graduate no less) with lots of exactly the right kind of experience.

The mirror draws inspiration from the many gigantic concrete acoustic radar dishes that were built  between the World Wars. The Colne Valley Acoustic Mirror will be distinct in its three-way function and status as conceptual sound art, sculptural form, and sound sculpture.

 

 

Well, after holding my breath for a while things are rocketing forward ... a big relief. I now have dates in my diary for a site visit to peg out the space for the concrete pads that the dishes will sit on, and also for transportation of the dishes. Here are some realisations of what it all should look like at the site (thanks to Heidi at HCMF):

 

Okay well here's a video of me talking about the project back in July. Thanks to Oliver Jones for this and for making me look like gurning soundscaper (oh, and for mispelling my name). All in a day's work. http://www.hcmf.co.uk/media/show/16

Had a great visit to Slaithwaite on Monday 27th - fabulous autumnal weather, as you can see. 9 hours in the car round trip but well worth it. Finally met Desmond in the flesh! and now so close to installation. Me being the dishes:

Everybody say, 'acoustic mirrors!'

Desmond, Neil (Kirklees Council), Heidi (HCMF), and Cate (RCST)

You may not be aware reading the blog recently that we still don't have planning permission. But a bit like another important announcement today coming from across the Atlantic, we will hear this morning from Kirklees Council if we've been successful... Will keep you posted!

Got it!

I have loads I could put up here now... but the truth is, with the launch just 7 days away, I am just too busy. See you next weekend?

Drafting the website for downloading the audio and soundwalk instructions: go here for a preview >> Soundwalk Downloads

Artec have been working hard to meet the deadline - hugely appreciated by everybody involved in the project. They've sent through these images, not of the dishes, not yet, but of the form used to make the dishes. Tantalising!

Really busy finalising the dishes, still on target for Friday ... just! The dishes are looking superb.

This blog has reached a conclusion. Had a great time at the launch last Friday (thanks again to Heidi, HCMF, and Jay & Bill, Green Building Company, for last minute help) and Sunday morning with all the people that showed up for the soundwalk (thanks to you all). Full details of the project are now available at the:

Colne Valley Listeners website (thanks for visiting)