Primary Intention:
The project’s core goal is to create an embodied, immersive experience where the performer’s movements and physiological signals interact with dynamic soundscapes, reflecting states of stress, panic, and resolution. This endeavor seeks to explore the intersection of the body, trauma, and sound as a medium of expression and understanding.
Tasks Fulfilled by the Project:
- Expressive Performance: Convey the visceral experience of stress and trauma through movement and sound.
- Interactive Soundscapes: Use real-time biofeedback to dynamically alter sound parameters, enhancing the audience’s sensory engagement.
- Therapeutic Exploration: Demonstrate the potential of somatic expression and sound for trauma exploration and healing.
Main Goals:
- Develop a cohesive interaction between biofeedback, sound design, and movement.
- Design an immersive auditory space using ambisonics.
- Create an emotionally impactful narrative through choreography and sound dynamics.
Steps for Project Implementation
Identifying Subtasks:
- Movement and Choreography Exploration:
- Research and refine body movements that mirror states of stress and release.
- Develop movement scores aligned with sound triggers.
- Biofeedback and Technology Integration:
- Select and test wearable sensors for movement and physiological signals (e.g., heart rate monitors, EMG sensors).
- Map sensor data to sound parameters using tools like Max/MSP or Pure Data.
- Sound Design and Ambisonics:
- Create a palette of sound textures representing emotional states.
- Test and refine 3D spatial audio setups.
- Rehearsal and Iteration:
- Practice interaction between movement and sound.
- Adjust mappings and refine performance flow.
Determining the Sequence:
- Begin with movement research and initial choreography.
- Set up and test biofeedback systems.
- Integrate sound design with real-time data mappings.
- Conduct iterative rehearsals and refine dynamics.
Description of Subtasks
Required Information and Conditions:
- Knowledge of movement techniques representing trauma.
- Understanding biofeedback sensors and data processing.
- Familiarity with ambisonic sound design principles.
Methods:
- Employ somatic techniques and physical theater practices for movement.
- Use biofeedback-driven sound generation software for real-time interaction.
- Apply iterative testing and rehearsal methods for refinement.
Existing Knowledge and Skills:
- Dance and performance experience.
- Basic knowledge of sensor technologies and sound design tools.
- Understanding of trauma’s physical manifestations through literature.
Additional Resources:
- Sensors and biofeedback devices.
- Ambisonic Toolkit and spatial audio software.
- Research materials on trauma and biofeedback in art.
Timeline Overview
Current Semester – “Explore” Phase:
- Research movement responses to stress and trauma.
- Test sensors and sound mapping tools.
- Document all findings to create the exposé and prepare for the oral presentation.
Second Semester – “Experiment” Phase:
- Prototype interactions between movement, biofeedback, and sound.
- Evaluate the feasibility and emotional resonance of the prototypes.
- Incorporate feedback and iterate designs.
Third Semester – “Product” Phase:
- Combine prototypes into a cohesive performance.
- Optimize the interplay between sound and movement.
- Conclude with final documentation and a presentation of the complete performance.
Questions for Exploration
- What additional biofeedback sensors and sound techniques can enhance the performance?
- How can movement scores effectively translate the emotional states into physical expressions?
- What feedback mechanisms will refine the audience’s immersive experience?
