Benjamin Norbrook – Whether I am There or Not

by wavecave
May 3, 2026
2026

Whether I am there or not, the world and its biosphere is perpetually growing and changing, often on time scales I cannot begin to fathom. This exhibition challenges viewers to become part of a larger, unseen interplay: three resonant objects, vibrated through self-reinforcing sound feedback, generate a constantly shifting soundscape. Viewers are encouraged to mute, damp and alter each body’s resonant properties to produce rapid shifts and discover new sonorities. Their actions mimic human impact on the biosphere; relatively quick, with immense, far-reaching consequences we are just beginning to understand.

Benjamin Norbrook’s work emerges from processes of radical transformation interweaving human and natural agency, incorporating live electronic performance, installation, sound design, photography and poetry. A current Reef resident based in Los Angeles, his compositions have premiered at the Bowdoin International Music Festival, the Brevard Music Center. Norbrook graduated with an MFA in Composition and Experimental Sound Practice from California Institute of the Arts, studying with Tim Feeney and Marc Lowenstein. He completed his undergraduate studies in composition with David Sawer and Morgan Hayes at the Royal Academy of Music, London, graduating with First Class Honors.