Texas Biennial artist Steve Parker invites visitors to activate a serene sound sculpture on the McNay grounds. The copper sculpture plays four liturgical psalms written by Hildegard von Bingen, a 12th century abbess and polymath whose work explored the healing potential of sound. Lawn chairs, blankets, chill vibes welcome, all ages.

Steve Parker works primarily with various sound elements, brass instruments, and simple electronic devices. His installation titled Sanctus installed on the McNay grounds will run from Nov 7-10.

About Sanctus (2021)

Salvaged brass, parabolic sound dishes, copper tubing, concrete acoustic mirrors, birdseed, psalms of Hildegard von Bingen

Sanctus is a sanctuary for birds and people. The copper sculpture plays four psalms written by Hildegard von Bingen, a 12th century abbess who explored the healing potential of sound.

The psalms resonate throughout the sculpture. The brass bells swirl the music outward and off the grey parabolic dishes. The concrete acoustic mirrors (WWII surveillance devices) function as bird feeders.