Phonetics Objects

‘Phonetics Objects’ was commissioned by Cartwright Hall, Bradford, as part of a programme of exhibitions to celebrate the centenary of its opening in 2004. Benedict Phillips was given freedom to explore Bradford’s art gallery and museum reserve collections, and could use what he liked for the exhibition.The final installation was split into two parts: the first is reminiscent of a Victorian library, with shelves of books overlooked by portraits of forgotten worthies – a working clocking-in machine with custom made cards and a display case containing warring armies of insects.

The second room contains five assemblages or “totems” each representing different societal aspects: Art; History; Politics; Finance; Spiritually and Culture. In each ‘totem’, a dozen or so objects assembled from the stone age to the present day, interact and create new narratives and meanings.