Stevenson, Vance
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Digital access to this material is pending artist's approval. Materials may be viewed onsite at the Goldsen Archive, Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections, Kroch Library, Cornell University.
In my work I attempt to rebuild natural or organic processes through the use of algorithms and dynamic systems. I envision the piece (be it an installation or a pure sound work) as an environment onto itself, a terrarium inhabited with artificial life, whose relationships I devise. I go about making such systems through programming distinct, individual elements and then letting them interact. The system grows in complexity as more elements are allowed to interact. The inspiration for the interactions often come from simple and accidental, almost dismissable, sources: how a flock of birds avoids an obstacle, yet remains a flock, the inner workings of flickering of florescent lights, and the way humans develop "jargon." For me, I often envision my work as possibly happening of its own accord; computers left alone at night, some wasted function; whose intricacies contain real beauty.