A fantastic workshop today with sound artist Michael Waterman. For a full artists bio, see the Forum.Michael brought along examples of his work including images/video and sound from solo gallery installations such as RoboChorus (2003), an installation of futuristic sculptures which respond to movement with sound,and Just (a tribute) (2004), a video installation using words as sound objects, paying tribute to Charles Amirkhanian’s textsound work. He also played excerpts from outdoor installation Radio Rare Woods (2009), which featured radios placed throughout the woods playing echoes of previous performances by composer/director R.M Schafer and performer Ellen Waterman. He also talked in depth about his ongoing work with the audio ensemble Mannlicher Carcano, which he formed at Trent University, and which continues to collaborate on radio, online and experimental sound projects; including weekly live audio art radio broadcasts linking Waterman in Guelph with partners in LA, Winnipeg, Trent and with overseas partners and audience members who join via Skype. It was fascinating to hear about the process of documenting and planning sound art projects, including getting to see the original scores/plans for some of the works we listened to. There were a lot of questions about how Michael gathers his sounds, how he displays sound art in galleries, the interface of visual and sound art, and how the more experimental work can translate to audiences. The feedback from the session was excellent as participants were inspired or challenged by hearing what an experienced sound artist explores and produces.
