Under the title Mechanical, the five participating artists will respond through musical composition to the utopian aspirations embodied in Polish Constructivist art, examining its emphasis on geometrical form and modern technology allied with ideal harmonies and a vision to create socially orientated abstract art.

The festival presents specially commissioned works by the Polish artists Zorka Wollny, Wojtek Blecharz and Konrad Smoleński, as well as one by the London-based sound artist Ben McDonnell and the British choral group, Vocal Constructivists. Curated by Kasia Sobucka, the programme explores theories of Unism, Composing Space, Calculating Space-Time Rhythms and Functionalism, a sonic discourse that includes performances that transform architectural plans and sculptures into musical compositions through voice and electronics; participatory concerts looking at rhythm in sculpture and architecture, as well as site-specific installations.

As with earlier festivals, the performances will be accompanied by an extensive programme of workshops, open rehearsals and lectures, all of which have been devised in partnership with The Courtauld Institute of Art. The event brings together some of Poland’s most exciting visual and sound artists and composers, connecting them with local researchers, academics, architects and a choir.

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