Speaker Bra and Wireless Shovel

Abstract

This paper discusses the development of a new electronic noise instrument using artist-led creative techniques that are informed by dance, sculpture, junk art and post-digital Constructivist aesthetics. 1 The aim is to integrate the gestural and pedestrian performance attributes of dance into live electronic music with a by-product of new creative performance practices and methodologies. The instrument is physical and haptic. It has two parts: a shovel containing movement sensors that acts as a wireless gestural controller, and a bra that contains a sound generating module, amplification and speakers. The instrument is battery powered and independent of laptop devices and large fixed public address systems. The imagery of the instrument approaches the topics of interactive imbalance and the male/female attitudes towards control of any relationship between traditional genders. The design and the agency of this instrument consider the level to which thematic sculptural concepts behind a tool can influence or limit the creative potential of the composer/performer.