Speak your Mind
Every day individuals make statements that take stances on issues. When you are challenged or misinterpreted for saying something uninformed or having a strong opinion, it often feels like what you say is being warped, mangled, or used against you. Many people are quick to take a stance and speak their mind in private, but how many are brave enough to say it to anyone listening?
In this installation, people will be invited to speak their mind - to anyone that is listening. A podium and microphone will be set up facing a group of folding chairs. The seating area is roped off, reserved for "Press." Two bright lights shine on the podium, illuminating the space. Anyone is invited to approach the microphone and "take a stance" in public. Their voice will be projected out into the installation space for visitors to hear. Almost immediately, their voice will play back to them from the press box from a speaker in a slightly distorted way. Within seconds their voice plays back again from a different speaker. This time it is mangled and shifted almost to the point of being unintelligible. This is just a glorified version of what happens to people every day. You say one thing, someone hears another. An idea is offered which may be twisted or perceived in an unintended way. This installation explores the compelling human desire to be heard and the fear of being misunderstood.
Artist Bio
Adam Murray was born in Ohio and has lived all over the U.S. as well as internationally. He graduated from the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences in Tempe, Arizona and is an audio engineer and designer. He creates audio-based artwork that utilize sound as a way to elicit emotion and present ideas. Adam has worked extensively with Phoenix artists and institutions doing audio work.