Andrew Belletty: Noctambulation

Dr. Andrew Belletty is an Indian-born Australian multidisciplinary artist, researcher, and sound designer whose work explores the intricate connections between sound, culture, memory, and place. His practice is informed by three decades work in professional cinema, within Indian, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Island cultural contexts.

Belletty draws upon his experiences of growing up in Darwin’s sensory-rich tropical landscape,to create immersive, vibrotactile installations that challenge our perceptions of acoustic environments and cultural memory.

Belletty's latest project, Noctambulation, is a deeply personal exploration of the transformative power of natural disasters and their lasting impact on communities. Inspired by the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy, which devastated Darwin in 1974, the work weaves together personal narratives, oral histories, and field recordings to create a multi-sensory experience that bridges past and present. At the heart of Noctambulation lies Belletty's commitment to bioethical listening, a practice that draws upon traditional knowledges to foster deeper connections between people and place. Through his innovative use of vibrotactile technology and immersive soundscapes, Belletty invites audiences to physically engage with the memories and stories of Cyclone Tracy survivors, creating a visceral link to a pivotal moment in Australian history.

Belletty's artistic practice is deeply informed by his experiences as a founding member of the Indigenous band Yothu Yindi and his extensive work in sound design for film and television. This unique background allows him to create works that are both technically sophisticated and culturally resonant, bridging gaps between traditional knowledge and contemporary art practices.

Launch and install photigraphy by Pasquale Tassone