SHAPE
Sound and Habitat Audio Prototyping Environment (SHAPE) is a collection of nature-inspired electroacoustic devices created for sound art in public spaces. It began with an audio feedback research project at the Center For New Music and Audio Technologies, took the form of several installations including “Thank You For Your Service” (curated by Sara Adlerstein-Gonzalez in the University of Michigan School For Environment and Sustainability), and continues to evolve in deep inquiry of modern technology.
By repurposing old electronics and manufactured objects, low-cost materials are used to make interactive sound sculptures and musical instruments. Subtle gestures and actions by participants change the sound in real-time.
More details at escholarship.org.
Performance Years
2019, 2023
Funded By
Center for New Music and Audio Technologies (UC Berkeley) and School of Environment and Sustainability (University of Michigan)
Process
Audio transfer is based on two input types for each device, a piezoelectric contact mic and an electret air mic. In combination, these elements sense vibration in material and sound waves in air. Sound sampling occurred at Swan Island (Belle Isle) near Detroit along with samples from the FLOW and BULB instruments.
Excerpt
