Build a DIY laser projector and learn how to make vector images with synthesizers!
04 October 2021 | 16.00 – 20.00 @ osmo/za, Ljubljana
In this workshop, you’ll build a DIY laser projector based on deflection mirrors attached to any speakers. The basic idea is explained here:
The design of the projector follows a simple rule – you can build it with materials and tools you already have at home, your studio or at the local makerspace, you just need a laser pointer, speakers (any kind), little mirrors and a double sided tape.
In the first part of the workshop Bernhard and Vaclav will guide you through the building process and explain the basic functionality of this tool. In the second part we will use various synthesizers and visualise their waveforms (as we learned in the first Modul@rnice lecture), while focusing on several other visualisation methods: professional laser projector, Vectrex, analog oscilloscope, digital oscilloscope, computer with a soundcard.
This workshop aims towards opening-up the creative usage of laser projections (are they really only available to big-budgets, dangerous, hard to get and complicated to use?), while encouraging visually driven sound exploration (vector synthesis). Since laser projectors or even analogue oscilloscopes are not that easy and cheap to come by or interface with, this project aims towards demystifying the vector synthesis while making it more inclusive, accessible and affordable. Furthermore, the project wants to encourage makers and artists to experiment with unusual setups and think outside of the standard usage of technology.
Mentors
Bernhard Rasinger is an engineer, visual and sound artist and co-founder of the art association New Jörg Vienna. He’s a regular guest at international experimental music festivals, music fairs and soldering workshops. His past performances include Ars Electonica in Linz, Superbooth in Berlin, Modular Days Barcelona, Machines in Music in New York, Kontaktor in Riga and Gigamodular Tokyo. Since 2013, Bernhard Rasinger has performed on a system that combines a modular synthesizer and state-of-the-art laser technology to create a lucidly hypnotic audiovisual experience (BR-Laser, Tearing light from sound, LaserBros., LaserMedusa). The list of his collaborations includes names like Owen Armour, Richard Devine, Vaclav Pelousek, Anna Samsoe, Robert Henke, Anna Sircova, Hrtl, Kikkimore Collective, Denshikaimen and Lukas König.
Bernhard RasingerVáclav Peloušek is a musician, educator, artist, and founder and lead designer of the synthesizer company Bastl Instruments. He studied in Brno and at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna. With Ondřej Merta, he started the art and education project Standuino (2011), which later evolved into Bastl Instruments. Since 2013, the company has developed and produced many desktop synthesizers, effects, samplers (microGranny 2, Thyme, Kastle) and a whole range of Eurorack modular synthesizer modules. The company also collaborates with Peter Edwards (Casper Electronics) on several modules and instruments, for example the softPop and the bitRanger. Coming from a D.I.Y. artistic background, Peloušek’s conducted many workshops and happenings at festivals, universities and other venues (STEIM – Amsterdam, The Cologne University of Music, Superbooth and Loop – Berlin, MuseumsQuartier – Vienna, MENT – Ljubljana, PIFcamp – Soča, Shape Platform – Meetfactory Prague, Synthposium – Moscow, Fold – London). The company has also initiated countless local community activities, organised shows and even set up the Noise Kitchen store in Prague. From 2017 to 2018, Bastl ran the venue Herna in Brno. Since 2018, Peloušek’s been developing his solo musical project Toyota Vangelis under which he’s released several singles and EPs, and performed at events around Europe (Lunchmeat or Meetfactory – Prague, Synthposium – Moscow, Modular Day – Barcelona, CV Freqs – London, Klunkerkranich or Humboldthain – Berlin). He was artist in residence at Locatie Spatie in Arnhem in 2011 and at Opekta Studios in Cologne in 2012.
Václav PeloušekHow to apply
Bring your headphones, optional: modular synth or any other synthesizer and an oscilloscope. The workshop is free of charge and will be held in the English language. The number of participants is limited; you can apply at delavnice@projekt-atol.si. Attendees will need to meet the current RVT conditions.
Production
Projekt Atol Institute with the support from the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Slovenia and the City of Ljubljana – Department for Culture. The project development and presentation at PIFcamp 2021 was supported by Hyper Global / Hyper Local, a part of MAX (Makers’ eXchange) project, a pilot policy project, co-funded by the European Union.
