Biphase

The Biphase performance explores techniques to create audio-visual cohesion in real-time environments. A networked approach, with artists in different locations, is compared with both performers being in the same space. Networks provide the advantage of separate locations being possible, while both performers in the same space allows greater interaction and levels of inter-performer communication.

Biphase is an audiovisual collaboration that brings together the audio and visual live performance systems developed by each author. The performance explores the sculpting, modulating and juxtaposition of primitive audio tones and visual geometries to create a hypnotic audiovisual experience. Audio is generated by a bank of 6 custom 2 operator polyphonic FM synthesisers created with the Faust programming language. Combined with a sequencer created with Pure Data and a touchscreen interface created with Open Stage Control, the audio engine allows rich timbres to be sculpted and sequenced, intuitively and quickly in live performance. Notably, no presets are used, meaning that all sounds are crafted live during the structured improvisation. During the performance a combination of modulated tones and impulses emerge to create a sonic experience appearing static on the surface whilst internally dynamic.

The video electronics are generated by a visual instrument which uses repeated and transformed geometric primitives that combine to create larger complex abstract structures. Colours infuse and noise modulates the shapes creating expressive visual textures which harmonise with the music. The visuals are an artistic gestural enhancement of the mixed media performance. The visual instrument is coded in TouchDesigner to incorporate both reactive and performative elements. Parametric mapping produces reactive audio-visual modulation and tight cohesion between sound and image. Performance controls permit the artist to interpret intuitively and freely respond to the unfolding music performance.