Pia van Gelder: Psychic synth II/Apparition apparatus

Solid light will be accompanied by an interactive installation by Sydney-based multimedia artist Pia van Gelder, whose multimedia practice uses electronics to develop interactive installations and performances. Her Psychic synth II and Apparition apparatus continue Ostoja-Kotkowski’s innovative experimentation with contemporary technology. Psychic Synth II uses electroencephalograph headsets with video and sound synthesisers to create a feedback loop between the human brain and technology, translating the participant’s brain waves into colourful abstract projections and sounds. This work offers an environment where humans and technology become complementary and continuous, influencing and responding to each other’s signals.

Apparition apparatus is an autonomous audiovisual setup featuring an early digital video mixer. The audio and video outputs of this device are plugged into their corresponding inputs, to produce an internal signal loop that emits a constant stream of abstract electronic phenomena. Van Gelder bypasses the unit’s intended use to reveal its inherent creative potential, allowing it to ‘perform’ and communicate in its own language.