Artist Statement

Rotating cylinder with engraved and perforated stainless steel surface, light, sound

rota, considered as an experimental work, combines scientific research with artistic production. The installation deals with the effects of audiovisual stimulation on human perception by  creating a stroboscopic visual effect which, depending on the rotation speed, produces changing frequencies of flickering light pulses that are also transformed into sound. According to scientific research these pulses can have a direct effect on the brain waves of the spectator causing neural feedback that can simulate different types of mental states like trance, meditation, relaxation and stress. The dream and mind machines in particular, developed by
Brion Gysin during the 1950s beatnik era, which apparently produced alpha waves to expand human consciousness, were the inspiration for rota. The construction presents an experimental set-up that allows viewers to experience in what way light pulses might effect their own brain activity and if special functions of the brain – like relaxation, attention, learning potential and hence creativity – might potentially be controllable.

• Carsten Nicolai, born 1965 in Karl-Marx-Stadt, is part of an artist generation that works intensively in the transitional area between art and science. As a visual artist Nicolai seeks to overcome the separation of the art forms and genres through a holistic approach. He strives to overcome the separation of the sense perceptions by, for example, making sound and light frequencies perceivable for both eyes and ears, to sensitise the viewer to the connection of the different sensory levels. Other aspects of his works include the integration of error and chance as well as the implementation of mathematical, physical or natural phenomena and theories. He also has a special interest in so-called selforganising processes like the growing of snow crystals.

Full text (PDF) p. 83-88