Julian Zehnder
Bio: Julian Zehnder (*1995) is a sound artist and composer, exploring field recordings, noise, and installation discourses. Blending environmental elements with technology, he abstracts sound and materials, defying conventions. Zehnder’s works have graced venues like the Jewish Museum New York, Kunsthalle Basel, and De Appel Museum Amsterdam, alongside international festivals and received many awards. Notable accolades include the Bronze Award at the 3D Audio Production Competition in Ambisonics 2021, the ZHdK Grant Award 2022, and the Nicati-de Luze fellowships 2022/23. Graduating with honors in Music Composition from Zurich University of the Arts in 2022, he’s set to complete his MFA in Sound Art at Columbia University New York by May 2024.
https://www.julianzehnder.ch/
Instagram: @julian.zehnder
Thesis Exhibition
Artist Statement: Observing shifts in environment, society, and economy propels Zehnder’s endeavors. His creations undergo significant transformations, influenced by sound, material, space and humankind; fluctuating between the tangible and intangible, organic and inorganic realms. He explores the intricate dynamics between nature and technology, unveiling a complex interplay:
Nature is not singular. While nature was once perceived as ultimate reality, contemporary society constructs its own reality rooted in the artificial. This era, termed Post Reality, signifies a shift away from nature toward consciousness as the new reality.Interestingly, amidst this post-natural era, there is a growing awareness of nature’s significance. Nature’s reality is just one among many: neither entirely real nor fictional, yet surpassing its innate naturalness.
Central to Zehnder’s vision is the concept of a post-natural landscape, where biological, botanical, and electronic elements merge, creating novel, intricate structures. His work highlights the intersections of biological, social, and economic systems, shedding light on humanity’s anthropocentric tendencies toward extinction and devastation. Through compositions, performances, installations, and spatial interventions, Zehnder invites audiences into a realm where collaboration supersedes competition, resonating with the diverse tapestry of realities.
Julian Zehnder
clamore, 2024
Strings with brushless dc motor, magnets, speakers, and pick ups wood structure
Courtesy of the artist
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Julian Zehnder
I may have seen it, 2024
pdlc foil and LED light
Courtesy of the artist
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Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme, 2024
Pedestal, customised moving head, omni-directional speaker, and dmx controller
Courtesy of the artist
First Year Exhibition
Julian Zehnder
togetherness can be lonely and difficult too, 2023
Acrylic glass, wood pedestal, 2x speakers, 3x customised airpump, raspberry pi audio, audio interface, power strip, 3x pvc / cellophane containers, mirror foil
Courtesy the artist
