As a composer and sound artist, I want to make art that challenges conventions and makes us experience the world in new ways. But there’s a problem: many projects I dream up are too unconventional, large, or “out there” for traditional funding bodies. I often apply for public arts jobs, and 8/10 times get into the final three only to fall short at the finish line for reasons which include (as provided in feedback): “Your idea is bold and exciting – it deserves a better outlet than what we offer”, “you were just pipped to the post” and “please submit this again, we love it”.
And so, I have a graveyard of creative ideas that never were. Ideas that aren’t just explored a little but have been visualised and drawn, and sometimes a model even made. But what if I could realise some of these ideas?
This is where you come in — with your support, I can bring them to life. I am looking for 20 people to contribute £10, £15, £20 or £25 a month as part of my new creative sounding board Peaspod.
I know it’s a big ask, but if you’ve ever been moved by my work or felt inspired by the ideas I’ve shared, I’d love for you to consider supporting me every month.
Here are a few of the projects I would love to create if I had the backing to make them happen:
EverSong: A Journey Through Time
Imagine a song that lasts for 90 years. EverSong is a musical artwork where you can hear a person’s entire lifespan, from the innocent voice of a 5-year-old to the deep, rich voice of a 95-year-old. The experience takes place in tunnels and along pathways, where the singer ages in real time as you listen.
This piece will challenge how we think about time, memory, and ageing, and I want you to be part of it.
As a member of Peas-pod, you’ll have the chance to experience EverSong, help test it, and see the magic unfold as the project comes to life. The ageing voice technology has already been created and I need your support to get EverSong to the finish line.
Modulady: The Feminine Synthesiser
Modulady is an interactive synthesiser built into a female mannequin, a critique of the “synth-bro” culture prevalent in suburban seaside towns. People engage with Modulady by touching various erogenous zones, turning physical intimacy into a musical interface. This challenges the way we think about attention, connection, and the objectification of both bodies and machines.
As a member of the Peaspod, you’ll have a chance to provide feedback on the design, to help decide where buttons and sliders should go, making you an integral part of the creative process.
Melo-wee and Sprinkle Tinkle: Musical Toilets
I’m working with an architect and metalworker to design a prototype for my musical urinals and toilets. Melo-wee and Sprinkle Tinkle (working title) will produce musical notes when struck by urine, making your bathroom experience one-of-a-kind. Initially designed for music festivals and other public venues, this piece challenges our ideas about space, function, and the unexpected beauty of everyday objects.
If you support this project, you can view early-access videos of the prototyping process and even have a hand in naming them. Who knew a toilet could be a part of musical history?
Ecological Earpieces: Listening to Nature’s Song
Ecological Earpieces are listening horn sculptures installed in water bodies. They acoustically amplify the sound of unheard, invisible nature, like the whirring of water beetles or fish splashing underwater. Using local flowers’ form and colour, each ecological earpiece is fabricated in stainless steel and uniquely designed for its host location.
Why Your Support Matters: Be a Part of Peaspod!
Each of these projects pushes the boundaries of what we think is possible with sound, art, and the world around us. These ideas might not get traditional funding, but with your support, we can make them happen. As part of the Peaspod, you’ll be more than a supporter—you’ll be a co-creator, helping shape the work before it’s shared with the world.
Join me in making the unconventional happen. Let’s create together!
Sign up here.
