Harmonic Divergence is an installation that uses both the physical and cultural vibrations of Schumann resonances as its material.
The Schumann resonances are a set of spectrum peaks in the extremely low frequency portion of the Earth’s electromagnetic field spectrum. Schumann resonances are global electromagnetic resonances, generated and excited by lightning discharges in the cavity formed by the Earth’s surface and the ionosphere.
Harmonic Divergence transposes those values from the electromagnetic spectrum into audible tones that are calculated into spherical harmonics of the Schumann Resonances, and also visualizes the waveforms of the resulting tones. The intervals used are based on the work of composer David First.
The audible output of the custom software is binaural, with discrete sets of frequencies directed to each channel.The individual volumes of each of 6 harmonics of the fundamental frequency (7.83Hz.) are algorithmically mixed both sonically and visually, based on the measured variations of both amplitude and frequency drift of the Schumann resonances.
[blurb about audio subsystem]
Culturally, much discussion regarding Schumann Resonances refers to the widespread pseudo-scientific, New Age, and conspiracy narratives misinterpreting natural electromagnetic phenomena as signs of a “speeding of time” and of shifting global consciousness. These claims often falsely allege that spikes in 7.83 Hz frequency—caused by lightning, not humans—indicate, cause, or reflect human energetic, spiritual, or physical changes. These narratives have grown popular in social media, blogs, and “high strangeness” communities as a way to connect personal unease with global events.
In times of uncertainty, we often turn to mysticism, magical thinking, and seek answers to our problems that give us a sense of control over our lives. This art installation uses technology, light and sound to foreground divergent ways of thinking — tools for making our way in the world — but provides no answers, no inherent meaning of its own.
To continue exploring the combinations of audio frequencies and visual patterns experienced at LEAF download a version of the software used in this installation.
