Circuit Symphony: When Music and Technology Intersect at SonarMática

Key Takeaways

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• SonarMática is a unique space at the Sonar Music Festival in Barcelona where art and technology converge, showcasing interactive art installations that push creative boundaries.
• Three iRobota-based projects stood out: “Surveillance Cameras: They Are Alive!!!” by Ricardo Iglesias explores the unsettling presence of surveillance in our lives, “Violí MIDI y Metal·lòfon MIDI” by Joan Vallvé offers a harmonious fusion of music and technology, and “E-SHOE” by Chicks on Speed is the world’s first wireless, high-heeled shoe guitar.
• These installations not only entertain and amaze but also challenge our perceptions of music, art, and the role of technology in our lives, showcasing the boundless creativity that emerges when art and technology collide.

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In the vibrant heart of Barcelona, during the annual Sonar Music Festival, there’s a hidden gem called SonarMática. This unique space is dedicated to the harmonious fusion of art and technology, where innovative minds showcase interactive art installations that push the boundaries of creativity. Among the many captivating exhibits, three iRobota-based projects stood out, each offering a mesmerizing blend of art, music, and technology.

Surveillance Cameras: They Are Alive!!!

Ricardo Iglesias’ “Surveillance Cameras: They Are Alive!!!” is an eerie yet thought-provoking installation that explores the ever-growing presence of surveillance in our lives. The piece features robots equipped with embedded cameras that intelligently track and follow people, creating an unsettling sense of being constantly watched. The iRobota board serves as the brain of these robotic stalkers, controlling their movements and enabling them to respond to their surroundings. The intricate power source design ensures that each part of the robot receives the necessary energy from a single battery, allowing them to operate seamlessly.

Violí MIDI y Metal·lòfon MIDI

In contrast to the unsettling nature of Iglesias’ piece, Joan Vallvé’s “Violí MIDI y Metal·lòfon MIDI” offers a harmonious fusion of music and technology. Vallvé has crafted two musical instruments, a MIDI violin and a MIDI metallophone, specifically designed for live performances. These instruments, built using iRobota, transcend traditional musical boundaries, allowing performers to explore new sonic landscapes. Vallvé’s goal is to create a musical environment that challenges the conventional notions of singer-songwriter or musical group, encouraging collaboration and experimentation.

E-SHOE

The Chicks on Speed collective, known for their innovative and unconventional approach to music, have created “E-SHOE,” the world’s first wireless, high-heeled shoe guitar. This remarkable creation is a collaboration between Chicks on Speed, shoe designer Max Kibardin, and Alex Posada/Bartosz Zygmunt. The E-SHOE allows musicians to trigger sounds wirelessly using MIDI, transforming their footsteps into musical notes. It’s part of Chicks on Speed’s “Objekt Instruments” collection, which features unique musical instruments made from various objects, blurring the lines between art, fashion, and music.

Bonus: SonarMática is a testament to the boundless creativity that emerges when art and technology collide. These interactive installations not only entertain and amaze but also challenge our perceptions of music, art, and the role of technology in our lives. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more captivating and groundbreaking works of art that push the boundaries of human imagination.

SonarMática is a microcosm of the larger Sonar Music Festival, which attracts music enthusiasts, artists, and innovators from around the world. The festival features a diverse lineup of music performances, interactive arts, and thought-provoking discussions, making it a hub for cultural exchange and artistic exploration.