Constable Ambisonic Workshop: Oral and Aural Landscapes

Sit, slow down, and tune in to the sonic layers of Constable country. In this relaxed morning workshop led by artist, writer, and composer Kelly Ann Buckley (K-A-B), you’ll explore the soundscape of the environment through deep listening and gentle sound mapping, culminating in the writing of a short letter to John Constable - a sonic homage, 250 years after his birth.

We’ll begin with a gentle introduction to soundscape ecology, Constable’s quick sketches vs his more careful painting compositions, and his evocative letter writing. His own words - "the sound of water escaping from mill-dams, willows, old rotten planks, slimy posts and brickwork. I love such things," - will act as a prompt for your personal reflection on the modern soundscape.

Participants will choose a quiet spot, listen deeply, and respond through hand-drawn sound maps, exploring elements of graphic scores, and a short letter to Constable, describing how the landscape and its sounds have changed over two and a half centuries.

This is a low-activity, strictly tech-free workshop - ideal for those wanting to get off screens and reconnect through pencil, paper, the meditative aspect of focused listening and the joy of writing, all inspired by Constable's soundscapes and land.

Morning workshops are for a 12+ audience. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.