07:41
Erich Berger is a master of the obscure interface. With an engineering degree in communications and a Master degree in philosophy, it should perhaps not come as a surprise that Berger is interested in paradox. His fascination for mathematical structures is obvious in his visual language, consisting of the formal patterns of squares, lines and rectangles. No attempt is made to create an organic quality, the shapes are pure abstraction.
In previous projects like Spinne and Seven Mile Boots (both created with Laura Beloff) he has explored physical interfaces as ambient spatial or wearable components. Recently he has started to focus on visual performance. The performance work Tempest perfectly sums up Berger’s work. Abstract patterns on a LCD screen causes electromagnetic radiation, which is recorded and transformed into sound. Differences in the image produces change in the sound. The result is a composition of noise and light, a conceptually pure generative process leading to a live performance.
Berger currently directs the MAKING SENSE Project (Physical Computing for Artistic purpose) at Atelier Nord in Oslo. This series of workshops has been very successful at introducing artists to new tools and processes related to interactive art. Berger also travels to hold workshops about physical computing around Europe. With the sound artist PURE he has founded the audiovisual improvisation duo PURE.BERGER.
Erich Berger will present the lecture “Surfing the space of possibilities – live performance and interface in the context of generative art”. He will also perform Tempest live at the Generator.x.concert.
Relevant links:
Stigeredoo has posted a video of Tempest performed at Kanonhallen. You can see it over on Vimeo.