SOUNDING BACKBOARD is designed for one person to lie on and feel the sounds of the surrounding tines being played by others. The design is based on the lifeguard’s backboard used for spinal stabilization, and the mbira or lamellaphone- typically a handheld tonal percussion instrument.

 

Upon returning to Columbus, Ohio from living New York City, Amery served as a life guard and swim instructor at the Columbus Aquatic Center in Victorian Village and Windsor Pool in South Lindon. Amery built Sounding Backboard in a basement studio while staying at local artists Clara and Alan Crockett's house. This artwork and multi-sensory experience is exemplary of everyday experiences inspiring and informing his studio practice and interest in the dynamics and structures of encounters and relationships.