Machine Machine Touchscreen Instrument

Machine Machine (2013) is a 32″ touchscreen installation that functions as an electronic instrument. Granular synthesis is used to loop “grains” of sound and video at variable lengths and frequencies. These parameters are based on the y-axis of the touch point on the monitor. The x-axis determines the position of the grain within the timeline. The piece was exhibited last month at the Northrup King Building in Minneapolis during Art-a-Whirl and for Visual Storage; the MCAD MFA thesis exhibition.

Screen Shot 2013-06-26 at 10.18.54 AM

Within the piece there are five different segments that can be manipulated. Each segment provides the sound and visuals of a particular machine doing its job. These include a magnetic scrap crane, a train engine, a hydraulic metal cutter, tanker cars, and foot traffic. The video demonstrates some of the range and subtlety possible with the device.

Screen Shot 2013-06-26 at 10.20.05 AM

Leave a Reply