Experimental Sound
A short video overview of the project, derived from a 30+ minute presentation.
SIGNAL
(2020 - Ongoing)
Inspired by the earliest electronic artwork of the 1950’s, SIGNAL is a custom digital synthesis engine that generates and renders spectacular new oscillographic images from synthesized sound.
SIGNAL is inspired by the pioneering 1950’s electronic visual artwork of Ben Laposky.
Laposky’s early works, “The Oscillons” were geometric artworks created by photographing the simultaneous interaction of two precisely generated electronic signals on an oscilloscope. The electronic circuits Laposky made to create his works were in some respects similar to those found in modern analog musical synthesizers, and generated (unintentionally) audible sound waves.
The same signals that created Laposky’s “Oscillons”, could be plugged into speakers and listened to.
SIGNAL builds on the concepts behind Laposky’s methods to further explore the literal sounds of shapes.
SIGNAL is a custom coded synthesis engine that creates geometric shapes and sound from the same signal that is simultaneously seen and heard. Together with the SIGNAL Control, new artworks and sounds can be generated in a collaborative, interactive installation.
C++ / openFrameworks / OpenGL / JUCE
An example of live generated imagery from the SIGNAL system.
Live output footage from the prototype SIGNAL system at a recent gallery installation.
A high resolution image generated by the SIGNAL system, known as “The Welcome”.
Control SIGNAL
(2021 - Ongoing)
A custom hardware controller that wirelessly interfaces with the SIGNAL synthesis engine to create an interactive, user friendly art synthesizer.
The final version of this prototype will be used to provide public interaction with the SIGNAL system in a gallery setting.
C++ / openFrameworks
Shepard Tone for Four Oscillators
(2021)
Experimental composition using four precisely timed sine waves to create beautiful animation.
Video is a recording of oscilloscope, image is generated by the sound.
Tektronix Vectorscope / C++ / openFrameworks
Spatial Synthesizer
(2019-2020)
A novel synthesizer that uses Computer Vision to trace outlines on video input and converts the outline to soundwaves that are playable by the performer. Extensive image manipulation features alter both the image, and the sound.
The first video is a short artist profile where I describe this work made for the online presentation requirements during Covid-19. Below is raw footage of the synth in action.
Java / Processing
Schlieren Chromatic Sound
(2019)
A unique multicolor Schlieren system that allows RGB color mixing, coupled with a modified speaker that heats the air to create a heated sound pressure wave. Sounds are generated in software and exponentially follow the frequency harmonics of each musical tone up to visual frequency range and display the corresponding “harmonic color” to illuminate the air currents in the Schlieren system.
This video shows a short chromatic work, written to resonate the speaker and installation space in a simple and dramatic way.
Vacuum / High Pressure Chamber Spring Reverb (2018 - Ongoing)
Mechanical acoustics present new opportunities for affecting sounds. Spring reverbs are dampened by air resistance, by inserting the reverb unit in a vacuum, a longer decay, a more open frequency response, and a unique sound character emerges. High pressure environments offer similar inverse affects.
The unique sound character of the vacuum chamber reverb has been used in sound design, experimental music and continues to be developed.
Experimental Reverb Plates (2018)
A months long investigation into traditional reverb plate designs, materials, and drivers. Pictured is a personal favorite, TIG welded lightweight structural aluminum with a high tension galvanized steel plate.
To A Water Lily - Michelle Fornabai
(2013 - )
Assisted in developing methods to resonate, and created days-long sound recordings to embed within setting concrete with architect/artist Michelle Fornabai.
https://arpajournal.net/theartoftheslump/
The Intercontinental Transmissions (2011)
Restoration & Remastering
A restoration of incredibly rare illegal pre-revolutionary Iranian (and other international) records with WMBR DJ Jesse Kaminsky.
A Distant Episode - Jesse Kaminsky (2013)
5.1 Sound Mix and technical assistance for Boston Children’s Museum installation.