“Sun and Moon, Light and Tides”
Installation
Project Title
Sun and Moon, Light and Tides
Contents
Project Summary
“Sun and Moon, Light and Tides” is an immersive photographic and musical installation designed to explore the intersection of celestial forces and natural cycles, specifically focusing on the relationship between the sun, moon, tides, and the rhythms of nature. This installation will feature a combination of sunrise imagery from Port Macquarie’s beaches and long-exposure ocean photographs. These visual elements will be accompanied by an original ambient score, providing an immersive experience that invites contemplation on both the tangible and intangible forces shaping our world. The project will be presented during Artwalk 2025 under the theme “Out of This World.”
Quality
The “Sun and Moon, Light and Tides” installation exemplifies a high level of artistic ambition, innovation, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
- Vision and Artistic Rationale: This project merges photography and music to explore the intersection of celestial phenomena and natural rhythms. The pairing of visual elements with an original, evocative score creates an immersive experience that transcends the limitations of a traditional gallery exhibit. It invites the audience to reflect on the unseen forces of nature that shape our lives, including gravitational pull, light, and time.
- Innovation and Experimentation: The project combines two distinct forms of artistic expression—photography and music—into a cohesive installation, presenting both a visual and auditory journey. The use of long exposure photography to depict the dynamic motion of the ocean contrasts with the static beauty of sunrises, capturing both change and stillness. The new musical composition adds an additional layer of depth, further enhancing the sensory experience.
- Significance and Contribution: The work is significant in its focus on the metaphysical connection between the sun, moon, and tides, which are central elements of our natural world, but often go unnoticed. Through this installation, we hope to foster a deeper connection to both the visible and invisible forces that influence our lives, reinforcing the interconnectedness of the cosmos and Earth.
- Cultural and Community Impact: The installation engages local audiences by celebrating Port Macquarie’s natural beauty, while also inviting tourists to experience the region’s environment through a universal lens. The work adds to the diversity of cultural expression in the region, encouraging visitors to reflect on the broader themes of the “Out of This World” theme.
Viability
The proposed installation is both viable and strategically planned, ensuring that all aspects of the project are achievable within the set budget and timeline.
- Capacity to Deliver: As the primary artist, I will manage the photography, curation, and creative direction of the installation. As a qualified composer I will produce the original music and ensure the soundscape aligns with the visual experience. I will oversee the physical presentation of the work.
- Relevant Skills and Expertise: The project draws on my experience as a photographer, along with my expertise as a composer. Collaborating with local musicians who specialise in atmospheric music, we will create an atmospheric soundscape to enhance the installation.
- Realistic Planning and Resource Use: The project budget has been carefully considered to cover all necessary costs, including photography, printing, music composition, installation materials, and marketing. Additionally, contingency funds are allocated to cover any unforeseen expenses.
- Appropriate Payments and Safety: All involved artists, professionals, and collaborators will receive fair compensation for their work, and all activities will adhere to health and safety guidelines. The installation will be designed with appropriate signage, lighting, and sound systems, ensuring the safety and comfort of visitors.
- Diversity and Co-Funding: Efforts will be made to ensure the installation is accessible to diverse audiences, including those with disabilities.
- Access and Environmental Considerations: The exhibition space will be chosen to ensure accessibility for all audiences, with wheelchair access and proper lighting. We will also aim to minimize the environmental impact by using energy-efficient lighting and sustainable framing materials.
Alignment
The “Sun and Moon, Light and Tides” installation aligns with the strategic objective of “Australians are transformed by arts and creativity”.
- Creating and Sharing New Work: The project will introduce a new body of work that brings together visual art and music in a unique and engaging way. The combination of photography and a newly composed score provides a novel cultural experience that is not only timely but deeply relevant to the “Out of This World” theme of Artwalk 2025.
- Creating Engaging Cultural Experiences: This installation will immerse audiences in the forces of nature, creating an atmosphere of reflection and connection. Visitors will be invited to contemplate the relationship between the visible world and the unseen cosmic forces that influence our daily lives, fostering deeper connections with both art and the natural world.
- Connecting Communities: The project has the potential to reach both local and tourist audiences. Locals will feel a sense of connection to the natural beauty of Port Macquarie, while tourists will be able to experience this beauty in a new light through the installation’s artistic presentation. The installation encourages both personal and communal engagement with art, offering an opportunity to pause and reflect on the world around us.
- Increasing Participation: The immersive nature of the installation encourages people from all backgrounds to engage with art in unexpected and accessible ways. The visual and auditory components of the work will appeal to diverse audiences, fostering inclusivity in the cultural experience. Furthermore, the use of natural imagery allows for a universal interpretation of the theme that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers.
Budget Breakdown
Total Budget Estimate: $15,000 – $20,000
- Photography and Image Editing – $2,500
- Editing and retouching of high-quality prints.
- Printing and framing of 12-15 images (archival paper and sleek framing).
- Music Composition and Production – $4,000
- Composer fee for original score creation.
- Audio production (recording, mixing, and mastering).
- Music licensing for public exhibition.
- Installation Materials – $2,000
- Mounting hardware, sound system (speakers and setup), and other display materials.
- Artist Fees – $3,500
- Compensation for the artist’s curating, set-up, and oversight of installation.
- Marketing and Promotion – $2,000
- Promotional materials (flyers, social media, ads).
- Press outreach and media coordination.
- Miscellaneous and Contingency – $2,000
- Transportation, unexpected costs, or special requirements.
Conclusion
“Sun and Moon, Light and Tides” offers a unique opportunity to engage the public in an immersive artistic experience that explores our connection to the natural world and cosmic forces. Through visual art and music, this installation will provide an engaging, meditative journey for Artwalk 2025 participants, inviting them to reflect on the beauty of nature, time, and the universe. The project is a perfect fit for the “Out of This World” theme, and we are excited about the potential impact it will have on the local community and visitors alike.
Thank you for considering this proposal.
Examples of Work
Biography
Paul Witney is a distinguished Australian composer, educator, and photographic artist whose work has garnered national and international acclaim. He has studied under some of Australia’s most esteemed contemporary composers, including Nigel Butterley and Michael Smetanin. Witney’s compositions have been performed by leading ensembles such as the Western Australian Symphony Orchestra, The Song Company, Generator, and The Zurich Ensemble for New Music.
Witney’s career is marked by numerous accolades and prestigious residencies. He was awarded the 2MBS Young Australian Composers award for his piece “Zero Through Nine” and received high commendation for “Come To The Edge”. He participated in the inaugural Australian National Academy of Music’s Composition program, writing for the Zurich Ensemble for New Music. Witney has also served as Composer in Residence at the Border Music Camp in 2001 and 2004, where his works premiered and earned recognition for their contribution to Australian music in regional areas.
In addition to his compositional achievements, Witney has been active in the education sector, composing for young musicians and collaborating with various contemporary Australian ensembles and soloists. His projects have included a set of four songs for the Tara Anglican College Choir, based on Aboriginal Dreamtime Stories. Witney’s interest in collaboration extends to visual and performing artists, resulting in performances of his works in countries such as Ukraine, Canada, the USA, Holland, and across Australia.
Witney’s artistic talents extend beyond music into the realm of photography and visual arts. As the director of Creative Drone Services Australia, he combines his passion for drones and photography to create stunning aerial imagery. The company specializes in drone photography and videography and landscape aerial photography.
Through Creative Drone Services Australia, Witney continues to deliver high-quality, awe-inspiring visual content that complements his musical endeavors. His work continues to inspire and leave a lasting impact.