Trimpin: Phffft
NORTH GALLERIES
July 2 – October 2, 2005

Installation view. Trimpin. Phffft. 1992/2005. Wood, metal, plastic, and electronic components. Photo: Richard Nicol.

Nearly 200 air-activated reeds, flutes, pitched pipes, whistles, and other instruments hang from the gallery ceiling in the immersive acoustic environment of Trimpin’s Phffft. Kicking off a year-long regional survey of Seattle-based composer and sound artist Trimpin’s career, this exhibition recreates an historic sound work from 1992. Triggered by the gallery visitor, a computer programmed with original compositions conducts the sculptures. As they rotate gently, the instruments generate air flumes, musical undercurrents, bursts of sound, and sustained harmonics. Several of Trimpin’s unique scores and notational drawings for various sculptures and performances will also be on view. The Henry joins Consolidated Works, The Museum of Glass, Washington State University Museum of Art, Suyama Space, The Frye Art Museum, Vancouver Jazz Festival, and The Tacoma Art Museum to showcase the work of this inventive artist.

Curated by Assistant Curator Sara Krajewski and generously supported by ArtsFund, 4Culture/King County Lodging Tax Fund, The Boeing Company, PONCHO, and donors to the Contemporary Art Fund.