Most of the sculptures or projects that have been announced as part of Nasher Sculpture Center's Xchange program so far have focused on the community in which the piece will be placed. The same applies to the latest sculpture by Chilean artist Alfredo Jaar, but in a much different way.
That's because Jaar's piece, to be entitled "Music (Everything I know I learned the day my son was born)," will feature the sounds of new babies being born at Baylor, Methodist Dallas and Parkland hospitals. The first few seconds of life of multiple babies will create "a symphony of voices," one which be played in a pavilion designed by Jaar located inside the Nasher's garden.
According to the Nasher's press release, Jaar intends for the voices to be "simple, yet profound reminders of an ever-growing Dallas." He was also inspired by the Nasher celebrating their 10th anniversary, as it reminded him of the importance of birthdays and of Nasher's impact on the community around it.
Any families with children born between October 1, 2013 and February 1, 2014 at one of the three hospitals can choose to participate in the project, and each will suitably rewarded. Each family will receive a one-year Giacometti Level Membership to the Nasher, while every baby will receive a Lifetime Membership, the first time the museum has offered such a perk. Anybody interested in participating can e-mail their contact information to NasherBabies@NasherSculptureCenter.org.
Jaar's is the fifth project announced for Nasher's Xchange program, which will debut on October 19, 2013. Pieces from Ruben Ochoa, Rick Lowe, Ugo Rondinone and Liz Larner have previously been announced, with five more yet to come.
The cries of newborn babies will create "a symphony of voices" in Alfredo Jaar's piece for the Nasher Xchange program.
