153 returning birds

After training as a classical musician and a career in new technologies, Ban Lei (CN, 1990, based in Geneva) has moved away from pre-existing musical rules, equipment for expected use and electronic sound effects in order to obtain an “objective” or “neutral” creative context. He makes his own musical instruments, mainly out of wood—inspired by nature (trees, plants, wind, rhythm)— which he plays alone or in groups. For him, the instrument is part of the musician’s body. This practice has enabled him to master every aspect of the work process: inspiration, concept, technique, manufacture, adjustment, performance and public sharing.

The idea for 153 Returning Birds came to Ban Lei during the preparation of his project for the Schlossmediale Festival at Werdenberg Castle (Canton of St. Gallen), where he was Artist in Focus in May 2023. During his visits to the castle, he was struck by the sound of birds and wind outside. Considering the castle’s 800-year history, he imagined that birds and wind transcend time and space. The three sizes of the birds/sculptures/instruments that he created—51 units per size—represent three generations, i.e. grandparents, parents and children, as a metaphor for infinite time. The 153 Returning Birds installation has been specially adapted for the 2nd floor of Le Commun, under the glass roof. Visitors can play the “birds”, composing a random assemblage of sounds that unfold a form of intuitive energy. When the “bird sculptures” are activated in the exhibition hall, the surrounding birds hear their sounds and carry them away.