Today we have the power to augment reality - using sound, light and electronics. In this semester course we will explore Human Centered Design from an artistic perspective. The program will span over a complete semester and be broken to three phases - sound discovery, concept development for interactive objects and communication.
The Simple kit has 80 footprints for knobs, switches and sockets. You can design and build your own unique layout within a couple of hours. And, we're using the Daisy Seed microcontroller, which allows lots of sound design flexibility. It's so immediate, you'll have a sounding instrument in the first workshop day!
Length: 4 weeks
The challenge throughout the first weeks is to figure out how to make sound, that can be controlled in some way. Working in groups we will explore different techniques of sound design, both digitally and with analog circuits.
Learning goals
Length: 7 weeks
After we have built a sound making circuit we will look into the possible ways it could be interacted with. We will explore conventional controlling methods as well as sensors. When the interaction is clear we will look into materials and possible forms the instrument could take.
Learning goals
Length: 3 weeks
A project is not complete without its presentation. How would you communicate your ideas in a way that amplifies your design and brings it to the front? We'll learn how to create visuals, images, illustrations, images and videos that are informed by our design.
Learning goals
Nothing fancy, but you'll need one to make the most out of the kit. We can probably get you one for the workshop, but when you'll want to make progress at home you'll need your own. You'll also need some solder and desoldering wick
Mac or Windows ideally. You can follow this 4 minute tutorial to install Arduino and the additional libraries and drivers required.
Also install VCV Rack. It's free, and awesome! We'll use it to learn synthesis fundamentals, but it is an amazing instrument in its own right.
We'll need a micro USB cable to connect our synth to the computer and program it. Make sure your cable can transfer data (some cables can only charge).
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