Monochord

Multi-arts festival Rising is set to transform a host of inner-city precincts for the next two weeks as its blockbuster program of immersive art and performance descends on Melbourne. And even the Yarra is scoring an art makeover of sorts, thanks to a monumental work by leading audio-visual artist Robin Fox.

On show nightly for the festival's duration (Wednesday, June 1–Sunday, June 12), Monochord will light up the Birrarung like never before. The work takes the form of a powerful laser, beamed one kilometre down the river's length, the light sitting just above its surface. It's thought to be the highest intensity laser ever before used in Melbourne.

You'll be able to see this roaring light beam from multiple points along the river as it flickers, pulses and sweeps to a synchronised soundscape. You can also tune into the Monochord audio via the website. The laser will be visible from 6.30pm each night.

'Monochord', photographed by Zillah Morrow and Robin Fox