Refract

Refract: Cello and Glass by Sydney-based experimental trio Shock Lines involves glass sculptures made by Caitlin Dubler that are sonically activated by percussionist Niki Johnson, performing with Natasha Dubler on cello.

Through an experimental process of fusing glass and Hawkesbury sandstone, Caitlin’s work engages with the geological nature of glass and its ancient histories of pyrotechnical play. The unpredictable kiln firing process reveals gritty textures and iron oxide hues embedded within the glass and stone. Sonically this opens a rich palette of sounds - crunching, scraping, ringing. Responding to a provocation of sculpture as a site of material transformation, Natasha and Niki unfold a series of conversations refracted through the sound and materiality of glass.

Refract was first performed in April 2022 with Backstage Music and Ensemble Offspring.