Ban Lei
Duration
Ban Lei is a sound and visual artist based in Geneva/ Shanghai. After training as a classical musician and having a career in new technologies, Ban Lei has moved away from pre-existing musical rules, equipment for expected use, and electronic sound effects to obtain an “objective” or “neutral” creative context. He makes his own musical instruments, mainly out of wood – inspired by nature.
Initially trained in music composition, he earned a BA from SHU (Shanghai, China) in 2012. He later participated in the Independent Artist Program at the Musicians Institute (Hollywood, USA). In 2022, he completed an MFA in work.master at HEAD–Geneve (Geneva, China). In 2023, he was selected as Artist in Focus at Schlossmediale in Werdenberg Castle. He joined the Interactive Media Arts (IMA) program at NYU Shanghai as a Visiting Assistant Arts Professor and Artist in Residence.
In collaboration with In Fine. With support of the City of Geneva.
Cryptic’s Artist Residency Programme, delivered in partnership with Cove Park, offers musicians and digital artists dedicated time, space and professional support to focus on creative research and experimentation. The residency prioritises artistic development over final outcomes, enabling artists to take creative risks, explore new directions and deepen their practice. Alongside independent research and development, participants engage with peers, exchange ideas and benefit from shared learning in a supportive, collaborative environment. This opportunity is vital for both artists and Cryptic, playing a key role in nurturing the next generation of creative talent.
Since 2012, Cryptic has curated this annual residency at Cove Park, supporting the development of over 90 UK and international artists working across music, sound and multimedia practice.
In 2026, this programme is supported by Creative Scotland, Creative Compass Georgia, PRS Foundation, British Council’s Connections Through Culture Grants, the Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation, Arts Council Malta and In Fine with support of the City of Geneva.
