Invisible messengers from deep in the universe surround us.
These messengers are known as cosmic rays, and billions shower Earth every second, in a random way currently beyond human comprehension.
These subatomic particles are passing through you at this very moment…blazing close to the speed of light, blasted from supernovae and other astrophysical phenomena far beyond our galaxy.
By learning about them, we can learn about our origins.
Particle Shrine makes these invisible forces, visible.
Utilising new creative technologies, this installation transforms the never ending stream of cosmic ray energy into various outputs - generative 360 compositions, (powered by d&b audiotechnik’s soundscape system) vibrating surfaces, projections and lighting design.
These outputs are controlled in real-time by 5 bespoke cosmic ray detectors inside the installation, as well as by live readings from a neutrino observatory in Japan called Super Kamiokande.
The result is an experience like no other.
Particle Shrine creates an environment that’s unique each time you step inside,
a place where you could ponder these curious forces, and hopefully,
experience a sense of connection to the cosmos in the process.

Particle Shrine was created by composer and musician Christo Squier in collaboration with experimental particle physicist Teppei Katori and creative technologist Chris Ball. It was originally commissioned by the Science Gallery London in September 2022 and developed as part of artist-residences at King's College London (2021-22) and Snape Maltings / Britten Pears Arts (2021).

Presented with d&b audiotechnik soundscape

Credits:
Creative director, designer, producer, composer: Christo Squier / Creative technologist, designer: Chris Ball / Experimental particle physicist: Dr. Teppei Katori / Lighting designer: Eden Morrison / Ableton Live / Max for Live bespoke devices: Mark Towers, Bill Brooks / Soundscape install: Jack Page, Wayne Powell, d&b Audiotechnik / Fabrication: Sam Mills / Video animations: Peter Story / Photography: Matt Jolly, Jack Latimer, Rah Petherbridge / Video filming and edit: Matt Jolly

With thanks to:
King's College London, Department of Physics, Experimental Particle and Astroparticle Physics group / King's Undergraduate Research Fellowships / Science Gallery London / Britten Pears Arts / Ableton / d&b audiotechnik / Hackspace Manchester / The Premises Studios / Spencer Axani of CosmicWatch / SVA

Opening Times:
Sat 16th 18:00 - 20:00 (Opening/Taster) / Sun 17th 12:00 - 17:00 / Thurs 21st - Fri 22nd 16:00 - 20:00 / Sat 23rd - Sun 24th 12:00 - 20:00
Tues 26th - Fri 29th Educational Week for School/University Students or by appointment (contact office@sva.org.uk)

Hidden Notes Festival ticket holders: Free (Sat/Sun) collect your wristbands from the Box Office at Lansdown Hall (open Sat + Sun from 09:00 - 21:00)
Non-festival ticket holders: Pay what you can on the door - £4/£7/£10