Learn to compose human-technological cybernetic systems in Pure Data with Portland-based duo MSHR in this workshop focusing on sonic feedback and interactions between participants. MSHR has been creating sculptural electronic systems since 2011, and their performances combine light and homemade circuit designs with digital systems for controlling and manipulating complex behavior in sound and visuals.

Participants will need to bring headphones and a laptop that can run the free, cross-platform software Pure Data. Please reach out to us at [email protected] with questions.

Indexical’s workshops are presented with the support of the WHH Foundation.

MSHR

MSHR is an art collective that builds and explores sculptural electronic systems. Their practice is a self-transforming entity with its outputs patched into its inputs, expressing its form through interactive installations, virtual environments and live improvisations. MSHR was established in 2011 in Portland, Oregon by Brenna Murphy and Birch Cooper. Their name is a modular acronym, designed to hold varied ideas over time.

MSHR improvises with cybernetic systems through a sequence of gestural interfaces. The systems are based on feedback between light and sound and the physical interaction of the players with their hand made instruments. The physical design of the live interfaces comes out of MSHR’s sculptural practice, weaving intuitive and procedural approaches in digital sculpting software to manifest the sculptural objects that become their console. In performing the composition, MSHR act as agents within a synthetic ecosystem.