Leila Houston's Encrypted Sounds of Wellbeing project delves into the complexities of the human experience in seeking good wellbeing. At the heart of the project lies a contemplation of the contrast between the natural world and our modern dependence on technology. In the video work, the viewer is invited to witness a cyclist's journey along a peaceful canal path, with the serene surroundings providing a soothing backdrop to the sounds of birdsong.
However, the peacefulness is soon interrupted by the sudden, jarring sound of a Wurlitzer organ, which disrupts the tranquil environment and creates a stark contrast to the natural world. The rider pedals faster, striving for relief and freedom, but her efforts prove futile as a silent swan glides past her.
The Encrypted Sounds of Wellbeing project recognizes that while technology can enhance our lives and contribute to our wellbeing, it can also have negative impacts, leading to feelings of disconnection and stress. The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role technology can play in our lives, providing access to important resources and allowing us to stay connected with others.
Through its juxtaposition of the natural world and technology, Encrypted Sounds of Wellbeing urges us to consider the impacts of technology on our lives and to strive for a balance between the benefits and drawbacks. By exploring Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and authentic data collection from the audience, the project is a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of human existence and the importance of seeking balance and harmony in our lives.

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Leila Houston
Encrypted Sounds of Wellbeing, 2020
Video and sound
Johnny McJohnston: Max/MSP powered visuals and projection mapping
The Wurlitzer is played by Chris Barber, resident organist and Musical Director at the Musical Museum, Kew Bridge, London
Kindly supported by Arts Council England and Silver Vine Arts
Courtesy of the artist
Leila Houston's Encrypted Sounds of Wellbeing project was originally conceived prior to the pandemic outbreak. It began with her artwork titled Data: The Grey Area (2020), showcased in the group exhibition Interact '19, where visitors were encouraged to select digital touch points concerning socio-political issues that mattered to them. This data was then collected and used to create punched holes on paper tape that were played on a music box. Leila Houston's approach of using authentic data collected from her audience to create artwork resulted in a series of workshops with two art groups consisting of young adults from diverse backgrounds and those who identify as neurodiverse, from Charnwood Arts' People Making Places programme.
As the pandemic unfolded, the project's underlying theory, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, became increasingly relevant to people worldwide. The workshops, which focused on authentic data collection, allowed participants to reflect on their personal experiences of the pandemic and express them through artwork. Encrypted Sounds of Wellbeing explores the intersection of authentic data and creativity to promote wellbeing, particularly during challenging times.
Grey Area Encrypted us - Musical Score created using all data by Leila Houston and Daniel Proud Digital Tech support James Chantry. 
Leila Houston
Data: The Grey Area, 2020
Video
Courtesy of the artist
This work was created in collaboration over 100 participants answering a question about what the government should do, if their job was to protect and provide. Each answer was numbered and transferred using a code on to a music box punch card.

​The work was part of an art installation with painted ornaments. The 12 answers were also scattered around the installation and wired up to a button which would trigger a sound. Data from touch has also been recorded.
Leila's online workshops fostered a passion for participation and discussion in order to cultivate the development of the group's work. The workshops explored essential human needs based on Maslow's hierarchy, such as food, security, health, and social connection, and how they contribute to overall well-being. The groups delved into which needs were prioritised, which remained unfulfilled, and which were deemed relevant or not. The resulting works included an animation on the lack of ambition, a science fiction short story about how the pandemic impacted relationships and community, and a participatory activity where the public could share which needs were most important to them as individuals. These contributions were incorporated into the online exhibition for all to see.​​​
Encrypted Sounds of Wellbeing's digital opening event showcases a curated selection of music, sound, and video works by artists and musicians carefully chosen by Leila for their ability to capture the peculiar times we are currently experiencing. Each segment of the event runs for approximately three minutes and offers a distinct and varied experience. The total runtime of the event is 45 minutes.
Leila's intention is to offer an enriching alternative to the monotonous Saturday night routines during lockdown, such as aimlessly scrolling through social media or binge-watching another series. Additionally, it's noteworthy that the music, sound, and video works presented as part of the open were commissioned for the event.
A project put together by Leila Houston, supported by Silver Vine Arts. This project is supported using public funding by Arts Council England. Organised as part of World Mental Health Day 2020.

​Special thanks to artist-led Silver Vine Arts and other professionals who have supported this project: Kerry Jackson , Courtney Askey, Khush Kali, Zory Rubel, James Chantry, Melissa Fletcher, Elizabeth Dyer, Alex Machin, Ben Fredericks, Elisabeth Gaunt, Anna Lucas, Daniel Kelly, Johnny McJohnston, R10, Two Queens, Charnwood Arts, LCB Depot, The Exchange Bar. ​SUPPORT FUTURE PROJECTSDid you enjoy viewing this project? Why not donate? Your generosity will support future community projects as well as sustain creativity and the arts.