Rhythm exists everywhere, if so perceived. In this video triptych the viewer is presented with fragments of text and sound that take on significance within the context of the total experience of the 3 videos. On initial viewing, the audio and visual components seem disconnected, but in time relationships are sensed and a greater understanding of the intention of each the piece and the entire triptych is realized.
These videos are constructed with Max/MSP programming by mapping the luminosity of the video (visual rhythm), frame by frame, to an audio frequency of a Quicktime™ musical instrument to create the fundamental audio rhythm of each piece. Selected text (inspired by the content of the video) is then displayed, one letter at a time, according the tempo of the fundamental rhythm with each letter’s ASCII code mapped to another musical instrument or sound source, which creates a melody in harmony with the fundamental rhythm. What is ultimately generated by this system is musical form created by both scenes of life and poetic verse – plus unique audio-visual relationships that were not intended.
 |
Installation at University of Delaware Museum |
[flashvideo filename=http://ashleyjohnpigford.com/flv/AR-LBL.flv width=432 height=288 /] |
Lord Byron’s Lift Inspired by the experience of an elevator in London (they call it a lift) and the poetry of Lord Byron |
[flashvideo filename=http://ashleyjohnpigford.com/flv/AR-AP.flv width=432 height=288 /] |
Ackerman’s Playground Inspired by a children’s playground in Hyde Park, London and the writing of Diane Ackerman |
[flashvideo filename=http://ashleyjohnpigford.com/flv/AR-SR.flv width=432 height=288 /] |
Silverstein’s Rain Inspired by thunderstorms in Providence, Rhode Island and the poetry of Shel Silverstein |