Instrument, Interface, and Sonic Sculpture Design (Emig, Powell, Nolan, Thumlert, Marcella) The DSF team is working with sculptor Kenneth Emig (www.kennethemig.com) (an acoustical engineer and installation artist), and sound artist and programmer Stefan Powell, to develop new sensor-based instruments, music controllers (MIDI, CV, electro-acoustic, acoustic), and interactive sonic sculptures and sculpture engines.
Projects include interactive sculptures and tools (for playgrounds and public spaces) that model the principles of sound and elements of music through haptic controllers and interfaces connected physically or via wireless network to a synth engine using Karplus Strong; instruments using a diverse set of sensor/controllers, optical and tangible control interfaces including a percussion instrument that respond to infrared light. When prototype projects are complete, sound sculptures will be tested/evaluated at CMST (Community Music Schools of Toronto) and other informal/informal educational sites. Resources and interfaces will be adapted for other DSF projects, including accessible instruments and customizable (bespoke) tools.
Kenneth Emig is a transdisciplinary artist exploring intersections of visual art, the body, space, motion, sound, light and technologies, including acoustical engineering. He has won multiple grants from the Canada Council, Ontario Arts Council and the City of Ottawa. As well, Emig supported DSF as sound engineer, consultant, and collaborator for the March 2024 DSF/CAMIN Meet Up at the Re/Lab.
Stefan Powell (RA) is an artist who in 2019, began exploring sounds that led to the design of an experimental electroacoustic instrument (Electroduochord) played using the spinning magnetic field of a rotary magnetic bow. Stefan has released albums based on these sound experiments, and is an active contributor to the Toronto Frequency Freaks and Toronto Electronic Music Open Mic (TEMOM) community. He also shares his experience through workshops and performances, including recent work with photovoltaic solar cells for sound exploration.
Eric Neil Johnson (RA) is a synth designer originally from the California Bay Area, and has lived in Toronto since 2016. He has been making electronic music for 20 years, and making analog synthesizer circuits for 6 years. He is the soldering and assembly technician for System80 and also designs DSF circuits and synth modules.
Designing Sound Futures
