Art or Sound

"Art or Sound" aims to emphasize the symmetrical and ambivalent link that exists between works of art and sound objects. It will offer a reinterpretation of the musical instrument and the way it can become a sculptural-visual entity and back again, in a continual reciprocal relationship of encroachment and inversion, a phenomenon seen since the 17th century. The project analyzes the overlap between the production of both art and sound, music and the visual arts, with the aim of highlighting the constant exchange between them, though eschewing unnecessary categorization."

The exhibition will feature musical instruments made of unusual and precious materials by Michele Antonio Grandi and Giovanni Battista Cesarini in the 17th century. There will also be musical automata-complex artworks that combine the production of sounds with aesthetic values created by the likes of Swiss watchmaker Pierre Jaquet-Droz in the 18th century.

"Art and Sound" will then continue with 19th century examples of automated musical instruments and mechanical devices that give visual expression to music through light and color.

Other featured works will include research in the field of the synesthesia, experiments carried out by the historical avant-garde artists, such as the celebrated Intonarumori (1913) created by Futurist artist Luigi Russolo, along with some of Giacomo Balla's objects.