WORDS Cheri Morris IMAGES Michael McGurk via Dezeen
Listening to Joy by London-based designer Yinka Ilori for V&A Dundee is a whimsical exploration of space; a musical maze-like installation that highlights and merges the often-contradictory spatial patterns adults and children form.
A labyrinthe of curved mesh walls dressed in vivid patterns and bold graphics, Listening to Joy is an interactive homage to play for the young and old. It appears a maze at first, but closer inspection reveals mesh panels covered in zippers that can be opened and closed. Deadends become new roads and the space remade.
More than just an opportunity to change direction, the zippable walls reflect what the V&A Dundee describes as “the often-contradictory spatial patterns adults and children form while experiencing space”. Where adults follow a linear approach guided by boundaries, children tend to venture into the fluid and non-rational.
In addition to the winding patterned walls, Listening to Joy boasts two circular xylophones nestled in the space, inviting visitors to explore a musical component. The music made is being recorded and will be mixed into songs that document the sounds of the joy felt by people at play.
“Play should be collaborative, so I have created this installation for visitors of all ages to explore sounds, colours and patterns in a shared space. I hope that Listening to Joy will spark imaginations and remind all of us of the power of play,” says Ilori.
Listening to Joy was created especially for the V&A Dundee and is installed on the ground floor of the Locke Hall. It will remain open until 24 April 2022.
Love this installation? Check out the interactive digital installation Resonating Microcosms of Life – Solidified Light Color teamLab will be bringing to Maison&Objet 2022 here.
