The installation is named after Aeolus, the Ancient Greek ruler of the winds.[6] Jerram first conceptualized the installation in 2007 during a spell in Yazd, Iran.[7][8][9] While speaking with a well-digger working on a qanat,[10] the digger mentioned that the qanat would sometimes make sounds at times when there was wind. This inspired Jerram to create a piece of architecture that "would resonate and sing with the wind".[6]
Design
Aeolus is an aeolian harp, a stringed instrument that produces music using the wind.[6] Nylon strings are stretched along the tubes, which amplify the strings' sounds.[11][12] During times that there is no wind, tubes with no strings play low tones in the aeolian mode.[6][13][2] The sounds Aeolus produces have been likened to the minimalist music of Steve Reich.[12]
The installation's design takes cues from religious architecture, such as St. Peter's Basilica and the domes of mosques.[6] Jerram used 310[2][7] polished stainless steel tubes to create the piece.[8] The installation is 6 metres (20 ft) tall[9] and weighs around 10,000 kilograms (22,000 lb).[14] Each tube measures 2.5 metres (8 ft 2 in) in length.[5]
Touring
Aelous toured England from 2011 to 2012. The tour began at Lyme Park where it was in display from 6-20 August 2011.[1][3] It then appeared at the Eden Project from 19 September to 9 October.[5] During its time at the Eden Project, an exhibition showcasing Aeolus' creation took place at the Royal West of England Academy.[5] The installation then displayed at MediaCityUK from 22 October[15][14] before finishing with a spell at Canada Square Park in Canary Wharf, London from 27 March to 10 May 2012.[2][10][16]
