Neural KNot: Syncopated/Synaptic/Syncope

Neural KNot: Syncopated/Synaptic/Syncope is a kinetic sound sculpture exploring disability and brain function in relation to sound. This project was a collaboration between Mentoring Artists for Women's Art, Manitoba Neuroscience Network, and the Buhler Gallery. I was paired with pediatric neurosurgeon and biosystems engineer Dr. Colin Kazina. Our conversations on brain surgery, bio-medical brain modeling, and my own research into audio processing disorder (APD) informed this work. Using the techniques of electronic music composition, this work illustrates how my sonic experience diverges. A network of threads, microphones, audio software, electronics, and speakers work together to produce sound that uses counterpoint rhythms, vibrations, and feedback loops to speak to the sonic artifacts that I experience. Contact microphones monitor the sonic actions within the sculpture and these live signals are processed using a generative algorithm that distorts, loops, and clips incoming sounds before adding them to the composition. Viewers can also experience the sounds through the body by being on the accessible platform. Exhibited: Buhler Gallery. A special thank you to Yvette Cenerini and Alice Crawford for their accessibility consultation