Current Projects

EXPLORATIONS OF THE ROBLAR QUARRY / a moving picture in sound

This new work - a 25 minute quadrophonic sound installation - gives voice to one Sonoma County communities fight against a proposed rock Quarry, illuminating concerns regarding the Quarry through the recorded voices of activists, artists, ecologists and government officials directly involved in the issue.

I have spent the past two years conducting and recording interviews about the proposed quarry, then weaving the recorded voices along with cello and illustrative environmental sounds into the composition in order to create an intimate audio experience. Interviewee materiel is cut and spliced in particular and studied ways, capturing the musicality in the spoken voice recordings and augmenting their inflections in an emotional tell. Looping, stacking and repeating layers are integrated with my own singing, speaking and whispered voice creating new rhythms chords and harmonies.

This work also incorporates an original poem illustrating the somatic multiplicity of the harm extraction causes human, animal and earthly bodies. Voice, cello, field recordings of wind, birds and trucks have all been expertly mixed in collaboration with Eric Oberthaler, then sculpted and separated into a 4 channel surround sound system.

“Explorations” will premier at the Milkbar in Richmond CA March 12th and run through April 9th.

Please see the Calendar for details and to make reservations.


THE GOAT GIRL’S MISSIVE

This project takes its inspiration from traditional Fairy Tales. The tales have been refurbished and refreshed in an attempt to put a new spin on the old by reconstructing their meaning in the form of original recorded compositions. In these sonic tales you may find things such as; wolves who do not get what they deserve, spinning wheels that collide with modern machinery, and horses, chickens and witches who may be sucked down a kitchen sink drain in a matter of seconds.

To purchase a physical copy or digital download, please visit the Goat Girl’s Missive website.


THE MILK BAR

The MilkBar in Richmond is an artist curated salon series, established in 2004 as an environment for the intersection of innovative, contemporary and experimental dance, music, theater, film, the written word and visual arts.

The MilkBar’s co curators are: Mary Armentrout, Merlin Coleman and Ian Winters. Our shared curatorial aesthetic produces the MilkBar salons in a vibrant and intimate forty seat venue. These salons host a dynamic and diverse range of artists creating a unique collage effect of mixed disciplines such as modern Dance, experimental film from around the world, mixed media photo installations, performance art with audience participation, and a diversity of musical acts.

Over the past 15 plus years The MilkBar has evolved into the site of dialogue between artists a swell as artist and audience while remaining focused on its primary role as studio and workspace.


WATER TOWER RESIDENCY

I am currently offering an artist residency program in a converted water tower on the land where I live in Northern California. I continue to be moved and inspired by the quality of work that is happening there and the delight I find in interacting with these gifted artists.The residency is meant for anyone serious about their artistic work and in need of focused time and space. I think it lends itself especially to writing yet all who feel the space could be useful are welcome.

Please contact me directly if you are interested in learning more or would like to apply.


SONOMA COUNTY TAIKO

I have been learning Taiko drumming with this group for around 5 years now and continue to enjoy drumming with them while deeply appreciating the community and mission they are creating.“To build a community of acceptance, harmony, and respect through our love of taiko.With that love for the various aspects of this art-form we gather a community that reflects the best and fullest natures within us all.”