Sleeping is solidary, yet we share this private activity with others, with those we know and sometimes with strangers. What happens when we open ourselves to share our restful experience in an immersive chamber.
Matthew Bird’s Dormitorium is a communal sleep chamber and exploratory environment that encourages audiences to engage with a complexity of sensory propositions, from textures and materials to the immersive effects of moving light and sound technologies.
In the lead-up to this exhibition, Bird’s research has led to an extensive exploration in the changing traditions of bedchamber aesthetics and the potential these spaces have to profoundly affect the way we rest and rejuvenate.
Dormitorium is the latest interactive sculptural project by Melbourne-based architect Matthew Bird. Acclaimed for his progressive and experimental methods, Bird draws across and unites numerous creative disciplines from architecture and interior design to installation art, photography and performance.
Bird has exhibited commissioned works at the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Festival, MONA and most recently at the 15th Venice Architecture Biennale. Between 2009-12, Bird completed a practice-based PhD by invitation at RMIT University that advanced his practice by examining his tools, methodologies and motivations.
His practice is recognised with numerous honours including a Green Room Award, Australian Interior Design Award and an Australian Institute of Architects VIC Award. Bird’s interdisciplinary atelier Studiobird is an armature for his academic tenure at Monash University where he introduces students to speculative design practices, engaged with industry led partnerships and realised a strong and distinct research portfolio.
Dormitorium has been created in collaboration with sleep disorder and physician Dr Marcus McMahon from Austin Health and Professor Shanta Rajaratnam and Professor Sean Drummond from Monash University’s Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences. With contributions from architect and artist Caitlyn Parry, composer and sound designer J David Franke and performer and choreographer Phillip Adams.
Matthew Bird: Dormitorium
McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery, 390 McClelland Drive, Langwarrin
Exhibition continues to 9 July 2017
Entry by donation
For more information, visit: www.mcclellandgallery.com for details.
Image: Matthew Bird, Dormitorium (artist impression) – courtesy of McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery