Photos courtesy of Keelan O’Hehir.

Over the past decade the Audio Foundation has a developed a vigorous record supporting and promoting artists working with and around sound in Aotearoa. 2018 sees the first two international events presented by the Audio Foundation and our close partner in Australia – Liquid Architecture. The two organisations have worked closely over the past five years to bring such renowned international performers as Puce Mary, Richard Dawson, Michel Chion and Rashad Becker to Australasia. This exciting new development enables Liquid Architecture to present two established New Zealand artists as part of their international programme in 2018.

The inaugural artist to kick off this series was Beth Dawson, a.k.a. Ducklingmonster.

During her visit to Australia in April, Ducklingmonster participated in Liquid Architecture’s Polythinking series, performing alongside Betty Apple (Taiwan), Brötzmann / Leigh (USA/Germany), and Claire Cooper (Australia). This series developed out of Liquid Architecture‘s annual Polyphonic social series, which applies the sonic concept of polyphony to social sound and social listening across multiple events and venues. The series embraces experimental pedagogies, installations, performance art, improvised music and partying. In addition, Beth performed a number of local, grassroots gigs alongside many stalwarts of the Melbourne experimental music scene.

Ducklingmonster (Beth Dawson) has been a pivotal figure within Aotearoa’s underground musical ecosystem for close on 20 years. During this time she has developed a unique approach to audiovisual experimental practice, applying this in a staggering array of groups including The Futurians, File Folder, Rise of City Cat Cult, Zombie!Fuck?, Ghastlies, Octopus, It Hurts, Maltese Falcons, Evidence X, Murdering Monsters, and many more. Additionally, Dawson is an accomplished painter, zine- and film-maker.