Namib desert art installation plays Toto’s Africa on repeat, indefinitely
If you want to listen to Toto’s Africa, go to the Namibian desert art installation.
The words, “It’s gonna take a lot to take me away from you” has never been truer regarding a new art installation developed by Namibian artist Max Siedentopf.
The installation, constructed in the Namib desert, features seven white platforms. Upon the tallest platform rests an MP3 player that blasts Toto’s “Africa” on repeat for eternity through six surrounding speakers.
If that’s not dedication, I don’t know what is.
In a conversation with the BBC, Siedentopf described his thought process and vision for the installation stating that “the song is put on loop and the installation runs on solar batteries to keep Toto going for all eternity. I wanted to pay the song the ultimate homage and physically exhibit ‘Africa’ in Africa. Some [Namibians] love it and some say it’s probably the worst sound installation ever. I think that’s a great compliment.”
Gonna take some time to do the things we never had
No one can doubt the primal power “Africa” can ignite in anyone, African or not though is playing it on repeat a step too far? Well, Siedentopf hopes it will stand the test of time.
“Most parts of the installation were chosen to be as durable as possible, but I’m sure the harsh environment of the desert will devour the installation eventually.”
I wonder if he asked the desert if it would like to listen to “Africa” on repeat for eternity- hopefully, nature doesn’t smite Africa for this incessant loop, great song or not.
If you are a fan, have fun searching for the Namib desert art installation- you’’ hear it!
Sourced
