Ellen Reid in New York: SOUNDWALK

Created by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Ellen Reid, SOUNDWALK is a GPS-enabled work of public art that uses music to illuminate walks around New York's Central Park, encouraging calm reflection.

After downloading the free app to their phone and putting on their headphones, participants explore Central Park, triggering different music that has been carefully crafted to harmonise with the park's natural environment and attractions.

The Covid-19 pandemic has been extremely isolating. SOUNDWALK is a socially-distanced refuge, designed to get people safely out of the house and into green space. It promotes an active lifestyle, and aims to encourage self-care, mindfulness, wellbeing and joyful artistic connection. 

Wellcome's Mindscapes programme is supporting the New York City iteration of SOUNDWALK, which is available in a number of parks across America. 

At a time when people are living through a global crisis and dealing with multiple challenges and inequities, the restorative power of music and of public access to green spaces are to be celebrated. We hope the intimacy of SOUNDWALK will inspire moments of welcome reflection and calm for those that experience it.

Danielle Olsen, International Cultural Producer