According to EEGsynth.org, the EEGsynth is an open-source Python codebase that provides a real-time interface between (open-hardware) devices for electrophysiological recordings and analogue and digital devices (eg. MIDI, lights, games and analogue synthesizers). In essence, the EEGsynth allows users to use electrical brain/body activity to flexibly control devices in real-time.
It is built with the intent of bringing together programmers, musicians, artists, neuroscientists and developers.
Today, many neuro-companies that supply Brain-Computer-Interfaces (BCIs) and neurofeedback systems are increasingly exploitative in the way they market these interfaces to the masses. As such, the developers over at EEGsynth have taken the initiative to steer away from such “exploitation of ignorance” as they instead embark on a aural journey, attempting to generate more enthusiasm about these sort of technologies through education and openness - especially through their workshops and artistic performances.
Performances
In February 2nd, 2019, 1+1=3was invited to perform at Folkeatern in Gothenburg. The performance was unique as it included the usage of the EEGsynth as a controller to modulate 3 concurrently playing video graphics.
Starting with a dark ominous vibe with a rising drone, performer Robert Oostenveld utilises the GeoMixer module to control the visuals on the screen as it reacts to his body movements. On the other hand, Per Huttner controls the music which was influenced by his alpha-waves.
As he had meditated prior to the performance, he quickly entered a trance state which was further enhanced as the music progressed. The videos which appeared later also evoked a trance-like state in the audience as well as they were slow and hypnotic at the same time.
For each video, the quality and colours of the images were influenced by Per’s EEG alpha activity which generated a harmonious movement between sound and image.
In the video above, you can observe the EEGsynth in action as the performers utilise it in a meditative manner, using only their brain-waves and physical movements to control sound and visuals.
