Event 2: Sound and Science Symposium

A close up look at the wiring and setup
of the kitchen layout

Dillon explaining his process
of discovery

My second event was Dillon Bastan’s electroacoustic instrument performance/sculpture as part of the Sound and Science Symposium. Of all the units we have covered so far, his performance mostly reflected robotics in art, and was interesting as it focused on sound rather than on visuals like most of the examples of art we see in the lectures.

I would recommend this event, because as I arrived early, it gave me a great opportunity to talk with Dillon and receive more insight into his art. His understanding of coding and electrical engineering was self-developed to build the foundation for his art projects, which I found amazing, because this perspective seems slightly unconventional in music. By talking to Dillon, I feel as though gained much more insight into ones’ motivations to incorporate the world of science into the world of art. He was also motivated by the natural sounds that would go on in the kitchen, hoping to place emphasis on this as he amplified the sounds and delivered them to the audience in his performance: simply making a salad and a smoothie, letting the kitchen appliances and tools speak for themselves. This process of discovering patterns of sound in daily life remind me of the processes embodied in the scientific method.

Proof of attendance as Dillon
was setting up the appliances

The more I experience in this class, the more it seems to me as though understanding is rooted in science, while expression is rooted in art. The processes and mechanisms used in art represents the science, the technology. Conveying a message and being able to share perspective is art. As I continue to learn and visit events, I begin to apply this understanding to my own life, wondering if an understanding of art can contribute to teaching math in my future. Will my understanding of concepts be used in creating a bigger picture, delivering the material in a natural and cohesive manner that incorporates it as a part of a students' daily life?