Hearing Padang

(2023)

“Hearing Padang” is a sound and light interactive installation conceived site-specifically for the Padang. “Hearing Padang” consists of two curved structures that create acoustic experience through allowing sound to travel from one end to another. The curved structures bounce the sound utilising the law of reflection, which states that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection, allowing sound to run horizontally through the field – the Padang.

 The Padang faces National Gallery Singapore, which was originally the Old Supreme Court Building. Drawing references to the purpose of a court, which is to resolve disputes between people through hearings, and the Padang, which was historically built for public use, “Hearing Padang” pays homage to the old Supreme Court where disputes between people resolved through hearings. It intertwines the action of hearing with public participation, to connect the public in an engaging and playful way.

During the daytime, “Hearing Padang” can be viewed standalone. At night, it will be lit up with soft blue light shinning through frost acrylic front simulating breathing.  

“Hearing Padang” is part of Light to Night Festival 2023, a commission by National Gallery Singapore.

Dimensions

36m x 18m x 2.5m

Materials

Painted Steel and light

Venue

Padang, National Gallery Singapore