W
hen you have not written or shared news on your life and projects in a long time, writing the first sentence can be difficult. So now that that is out of the way, let me describe the motivation behind “un-retiring” and developing this diverse project you are exploring – Coincident Media Technology. With this blog, I will be sharing the progress of this new venture, music, art and additional thoughts on creativity, technology and knowledge in general.
Ihave always strived to be an artist. First it was music, evolving into an interest in interactive technology and then the world of fine arts and “new media”. In my teenage years, I was playing guitar in bands. We could usually master the performance of many songs, but when it came to some of my favorites (Pink Floyd and Yes in particular), there was something missing. The recording and production of the music became an obvious issue to address. I was fortunate enough to discover the Music Engineering Technology program at the University of Miami, and even more fortunate to be accepted into the program. It was a true blessing to study and live with other people that were musicians and aspiring engineers. I found myself inspired to learn how the technology behind everything relating to music, and then video, really worked. Life can be surprising – I could have never guessed that years later I would join the faculty of that program and spend 24 years teaching things I have a passion for to so many intelligent, talented students.
Self-Recognition – Serendipity may not be the best word to describe a not so coincidental rediscovery, recogintion may serve better. Over the years, I have read and reread a Hindu text titled Pratyabhijnahrdyam. I will resist the urge to begin an esoteric discussion – but must confess that I will muse/rant on the nature of reality and consciousness occasionally. The Sanskrit Pratyabhijnahrdyam has been translated to “The Secret of Self-Recognition”. I bring this up because of this image I found while looking for past work to use in the construction of this website and biography ->
Diving into a few old external drives was melancholic, but also a recognition and an affirmation so strong that “Self-Recognition” fits the bill. It is crude, but the goals are making a reprise here and now…15 years later. The strange circular drum in the image is of an installation piece in a solo exhibition in Wynwood, Miami 2009. It was a study in using beat frequencies between two theremins to feed a 16″ speaker driver below the pan of fluid. It strove to illustrate interactive cymatic phenomenon with the white fluid. You can find the video I have of the piece in the Projects page (LINK). There was an old song inspired by the work in the same folder which I will post below. It contains samples from a documentary on Hans Jenny and cymatics, with the phrase “everything owes its existence, solely and completety, to sound”. Listening to it was strangely emotional, but solid reinforcement of this new chapter in life.
One more coincidence to share, that is actively occurring in this process – the process of understanding the relationship between work/retire/vacation and the value of pursuing your passion. I had always meant to read The Alchemist, by Paulo Cuelho and in the process of changing AirBnB’s while I wait for the documents needed to get a long-term rental here in Medillín, what do I find in my new place? Of course, a copy of that book. A good omen indeed!
M
usic, art, and interactive technology have the incredible power to draw young minds into the world of STEM. By delving into the engineering behind modern music production, game engines, crafting innovative electronic instruments, or creating immersive interactive art, countless individuals can be inspired to pursue technology careers. That is where I am going with this new project. First online, and then with a physical location for an academy and studio in Medellín. I hope to be sharing consistent and good news on the process with you.