United Visual Artists (UVA) is a London based group of artists who in their work combine wide range of disciplines including: sculpture, installation, live performances and architecture. Their last work called Momentum can be now seen and experienced at The Barbican Centre.
Momentum has been installed in the 90 meter long promenade located inside the Barbican Centre and called The Curve due to its distinctive shape. There are twelve pendulums activated lights and sounds swinging in complete darkness, each of the pendulums has been carefully designed and their movement is controlled by specially developed computer software, the sonic element is unique to each pendulum and created in a special way so the sound resonates within the shape of The Curve According to its creators "The rhythmic, wave like sway of the work is inspired by scientific instruments such as Foucault's pendulum, the result of UVA's enquiry into the physical laws of motion, coupled with their experimentation with light, and how impacts o the space."
Visitors are let inside The Curve in groups so everyone can enjoy the sensory experience. When I arrived at Barbican Centre I was a bit concerned because behind me in the que were mothers with quite let's say 'active' kids, I was wondering whether they will not spoil the experience with the noise and running around, but I was pleasantly surprised. The whole installation is submerged in darkness therefore the lights and sound make Momentum very hypnotic, obviously kids absolutely loved it and were completely fascinated by it, I actually really enjoyed listening to their comments, when they were trying to decide what does this place remind them of - the inside of the space ship seemed to be the most common choice.
Adults were equally enticed, following the lights, trying to stand in the circles and even sitting down by the walls just to stay a bit longer because it was strangely calming. When I was there I was thinking that it must be similar when you are in your mother's womb, with muffled sounds, shifting lights and warmth, of course this mother would have to be a heavy smoker judging by the clouds of artificial mist floating near the lights.
I absolutely loved the whole experience and might even go there again. The Momentum is opened till 1st of June so there is plenty of time for you to go and see it which I truly recommend.
http://www.barbican.org.uk/artgallery/event-detail.asp?ID=15620
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