Symphony of the Dreaming is a music + light experience exploring the Aboriginal concept of Country and its relationship to light, sound and energy. Commissioned by the NSW Government through the Blockbusters Funding Initiative and premiering on the forecourt of the Museum of Sydney at Vivid 2025, the work is a dynamic conversation between Dharawal and Yuin artist Alison Page and creative technologist and composer Charlie Chan.
Symphony of the Dreaming translates First Nations spirituality into a mesmerising interplay of light, rhythm, and energy – a space where the stories of the past become part of our shared present. The illuminated forest of poles draws inspiration from patterns and interactions in different ecologies, as the sound of Country is ‘painted’ in rhythmic projections of colour and light.
In a world first, Chan’s original artificial intelligence program, ChAI, interacts live with visitors, responding to ambient sound and movement, allowing audience members to each become a composer of Country, co-creating their own unique experience just by moving around the space.
More than just an artwork, Symphony of the Dreamingis a living experience, one that is designed to transport audiences into the rhythms of nature, awakening the deep connections between land, sea and sky. Step inside and become part of the story. Feel the pulse of Country, engage with its energies and help bring the symphony to life.
The artists have collaborated with Mark Dyson from Darkhouse on the lighting design, TILT industrial Design on the fabrication and installation of the poles, and with Gumbayngirr, Dhungutti and Bundjalung performer Ben Ferguson on Yidaki and other sounds.
This artwork is available for touring. Contact Alison Page for more information.
Client: NSW GOVERNMENT, BLOCKBUSTERS FUNDING INITIATIVE
