Minimalist Monday
29 May 2006
ULTRA
Extreme Economy in Electronic Music and Visualization
Robert Henke aka Monolake; alva noto [Carsten Nicolai]; Ryoji Ikeda
Programme Notes | Ryoji Ikeda | alva noto interview | Robert Henke audio
datamatics [prototype] by Ryoji Ikeda
Using pure data as a source for sound and visuals, datamatics combines abstract and mimetic presentations of matter, time and space in a powerful and breathtakingly accomplished work. datamatics is the second audiovisual concert in Ryoji Ikeda's datamatics series, an art project that explores the potential to perceive the invisible multi-substance of data that permeates our world. The concert sits alongside the recently released and critically acclaimed dataplex album.
Screen grabs from datamatics [prototype], © Ryoji Ikeda.
Thumbnails link to hi-res jpegs in a new browser window
Projecting dynamic, computer-generated imagery, Ikeda’s intense yet minimal
graphic renderings of data progress through multiple dimensions. From 2D sequences
of patterns derived from hard-drive errors and studies of software code, the
imagery transforms into dramatic, rotating views of the universe in 3D, whilst
the final scenes add a further dimension as four-dimensional mathematical
processing opens up spectacular and seemingly infinite vistas. A powerful
and hypnotic soundtrack reflects the imagery through a meticulous layering
of sonic components to produce immense and apparently boundless acoustic spaces.
Japan's leading electronic composer/artist, Ryoji Ikeda focuses on the minutiae
of ultrasonics, frequencies and the essential characteristics of sound itself.
Music, time and space are shaped by mathematical methods as Ikeda explores
sound as sensation, pulling apart its physical properties to reveal its relationship
with human perception. Using computer and digital technologies to the utmost
limit, Ikeda has been developing particular 'microscopic' methods
for sound engineering and composition, diffusing an aesthetic of 'ultra minimalism'
to the art world.
