Resonating through the decades: the From Scratch records

Photographs and other items relating to From Scratch in display cabinet

Items from the From Scratch records on display at the Fine Arts Library

You might think PVC pipes are more suited to a building site than a stage but the work of experimental percussionists From Scratch proves otherwise.

The Fine Arts Library is highlighting the renowned art/music ensemble’s work with a display of material from a newly processed archive collection, the From Scratch records. The collection features administrative and documentary material relating to From Scratch, including photographs, ephemera, and tours and publications details.

The group, founded in 1974 by Phil Dadson, toured extensively in the late 1970s and 1980s, earning an international reputation performing experimental sound works with their iconic tuned banks of PVC pipes as well as improvised and constructed instruments.

The Auckland Arts Festival are showcasing From Scratch with a significant survey exhibition entitled From Scratch: 546 Moons being presented at Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery from now until 27 May 2018. The exhibition, curated by Andrew Clifford, features material from the From Scratch records and will be presented alongside live performances by the group.

Visit the Fine Arts Library to view the display from now until 29 March.

Selina Foote, Fine Arts Library