1 SOUND Becomes Part of an Exhibition: Glass Life at the National Gallery of Canada
Glass Life at The National Gallery of Canada
For Glass Life—a multi-screen video installation by artist Sara Cwynar—Branch Audiovisual partnered with 1 SOUND to design an audio system that matched the depth and scale of the artwork. The exhibition, which examines how images influence perception and value, immerses viewers through layered moving visuals, text, and sound.
The installation features a Cannon C8i, three C5is, two Tower LCC44s, and a SUB310, powered by Powersoft amplifiers. Each speaker was mounted and aimed using custom color C-Clamps for Cannons, allowing precise positioning that blended with the exhibition’s visual composition.
Branch AV built the audio and video rack, outfitted with an Allen & Heath AH-AHM-16 Processing Matrix, Powersoft Q2404 and Q4804 amplifiers, and Blackmagic Design broadcast decks and converters. The visual elements incorporated three Christie DWU880A-GS projectors and three 55-inch LG 55UH5J-H displays, creating a cohesive multi-channel presentation.
“We are absolutely over the moon with the quality and results of this installation,” said Ryan Carman, Director of Technology at Branch AV. “The combination of 1 SOUND’s Towers and Cannons created a presence that was both powerful and refined—delivering a delicate and tasteful representation of the audio within Sara Cwynar’s Glass Life. The system complemented the immersive nature of the artwork beautifully.”
The technical team from the National Gallery handled the physical installation with precision. When Branch AV returned to tune the system, minimal adjustments were needed.
“It’s a rare and gratifying experience to walk into a room and immediately sense that everything is working in harmony. 1 SOUND made this possible,” Carman added.
Artist Sara Cwynar shared her appreciation for the sound quality and loudspeaker design made possible with the 1 SOUND Custom Shop:
“I loved the speakers so much! They are beautiful, and instead of being incidental, they became an important visual part of the exhibition. The sound is great! I would love to work with 1 SOUND again in the future.”
The collaboration between Cwynar, Branch Audiovisual, and 1 SOUND highlights how intentional audio design can enhance visual art—creating a balanced, emotionally resonant experience for the viewer.
Products Used: Cannon C8i, C5i, LCC44, SUB310, Powersoft Q2404 + Q4804 Amplifiers
Installation By: Branch Audiovisual
