Chris Lamas - The Sound of Dark and Light

In the current world of rapid digitization, I find myself gravitating to the unpredictability and tactile results of analog workflows from the past. This thesis aims to explore analog processes by creating sound from photographic negatives, to be displayed as a multi-sensory gallery experience. The goal is to emphasize the use of analog techniques to enhance abstraction.

Spring 2025

Planning

Gallery Layout

Please keep your hand on the volume knob. Here is an example audio of one of the tracks I am aiming to create. This was created using the Light2Sound PX module, recorded directly to cassette tape for its unique characteristics, and re-amplified into a small reflective bathroom. I ended up parallel processing a mix of both the dry sound recorded as well as the re-amped sound. This is an example one of the tracks created accompany one of the prints.

Device being used to create the sound.
'Light2Sound PX'

The Light2Sound Device will be used to obtain sound by emitting light through the photographic negatives, recorded exclusively to cassette tape for its unique characteristics. The sound will also be reamplified in a small reflective space to find interesting resonances. Guitar effect pedals used to cater the sound design for each photo.

I am still figuring out exact sound-emitting speaker technique, but this is a stereo isolation dome speaker. It sends sound to an individual. Each print will have a speaker paired with playing its respective track. The hope is there will be some spill from the the multple speakers in the gallery, conjuring an interesting sound throughout the space.

Some exampled Images of my previous photography, similar to the photos I will be taking for the project.

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