Homework 8-2: Sound Artist Research

Christopher Janney is a sound artist that, as New Yorkers, we are probably all very familiar will. Janney’s REACH installation was added to the Herald Square subway stop in 1996. The piece is a metal bar that features lights and sensors. When someone “reaches” their hand in front of a sensor, it plays a recorded sound. Visually, the piece is somewhat inconspicuous and I would not be surprised if it was mistaken for some part of the subway architecture. While some passers by may not even notice it, you can spot the true New Yorkers as they wave their hand in the air while running to their train.

Janney’s background is in music and participatory art. He has created various other multi-media and sound sculptures and performance pieces. One of his most notable works, Heartbeat, was famously danced by Mikhail Baryshnikov. Heartbeat later was re-worked to become part of an entire concert performed in New York in 2014: