Only in the art world could something like this happen.
An outdoor, interactive art installation that appeals to an audience of all ages will be open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And, it’s free.
Everywhere is the Best Seat isn’t your typical art installation – it’s sonic/light experience. Designed specifically for the Montclair State University Amphitheater, this installation of 36 red metal columns comes alive when passive observers become active participants. The pillars sprinkled across the stone and grass steps of the arena come equipped with lights, speakers and motion sensors, which participants can trigger through simple movement, filling the static space with sound, light and life.
“Making things interactive is my goal,” explained artist Christopher Janney, who is known the world over for his inventive public art pieces. From the New York City Subway to the Spanish Steps in Rome, Janney’s installations have combined his interests in music and architecture to produce art his audience can walk into. Today he brings it right to our backyard for us to walk into.
“You’re now part of the artwork,” Janney said of visitors to the installation. How cool is that? You get to be a piece of art. I’ve been told I’m a piece of work but never a piece of art.
And it’s not just cool for adults. It’s especially cool for kids. While adults may be slightly self-conscious or hesitant interacting at first, kids share no such inhibitions. Innately curious, kids are always ready to explore and interact with anything and everything. Here, when they do the art reacts to them. This experience, at least, they get to control. How perfect is that for little ones?
“The idea is how to be childlike and not childish,” Janney said of his art. With his pieces, Janney’s aim is to evoke a childlike sense of wonder. So it’s no wonder children find it so captivating. Adults do, too, once they stop and really take in the installation – strangers momentarily intersecting to form a spontaneous orchestra creating a concert through simple motion. Then, they have no choice but to be awed by the art beckoning them to become a part of it. Then, all they have to do is let go and join in the carefree, pure joy of the moment.
Kids are always going 24/7, and now here’s something that can match their energy. Whether on a playdate, a school outting, a family gathering or even a celebration like a birthday party, the installation is a great, free public space that’s always open through November 14. You and they can make great music together, get a little exercise racing around the amphitheater to every post, and satisfy a childlike awe of the wonderous world around us. “It’s a nice way for parents to interact with children,” Janney noted.
And, did I mention it’s free?
Peak Performances Sonic/Light Installation
Who: All ages.
What: An interactive art installation by artist Christopher Janney commissioned by Peak Performances.
When: Wednesday, September 1 through Sunday, November 14, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Where: MSU Amphitheater adjacent to Alexander Kasser Theater, Montclair State University, 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07043.
Cost: Free.