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Aural Color
Every now and then, I’m struck by how neatly music relates to design. Individually, the subtle details of either can be lost on the listener/viewer; but collectively these attributes create depth and allow for a range of personal interpretation. On a more functional level, rudimentary meaning can also be conveyed in both the aural and visual worlds; for instance, the straight-forward cues of foghorns and doorbells, or airport signage and website buttons.
Growing up playing the violin, as many Asian kids do, I initially learned to play by ear. In the years to follow I developed a better command of intonation, dynamics, and tempo control; however, the music I played, though technically acceptable, was ultimately cold and robotic. Too young to fully understand my own emotions, I definitely lacked the maturity to convey them through a musical instrument. Years later, I came to understand that there was a lot more to music than just melody. Now, I can appreciate the details in phrasing and cadence; and color and texture.
Design artifacts can also have layers of depth and complexity. Given the variation in style, color, structure, and functionality, a visual can project a range of sound from stark and quiet to blaring loud. It’s no surprise that music videos exemplify the literal marriage of visual presentation and sound:
So, the next time you walk through a gallery or brainstorm a new design solution, conjure its audible counterpart in your head. Consider its rhythm, dynamics, and aural color. You might find that it provides a welcome bit of unconventional perspective. Thinking in terms of sound dynamics and musical value help communicate sensitivity, and can give a cold design a warm-fuzzy soul.
The Gray Area Foundation for the Arts
Since I moved to San Francisco, the Tenderloin has been quietly transforming into a destination neighborhood of sorts, and I’m not referring to the “peeler” joints on O’Farrell. For one, I recently experienced some of the best Thai food (ever) at a divey little spot called Lers Ros. And despite it’s notorious reputation as a crime-infested danger zone, you’ll also find the City’s most iconic music/performance venues, as well as—in my opinion—the more quality, progressive art spaces in the City (WhiteWalls and Shooting Gallery to name a couple).
The arrival of The Gray Area Foundation for the Arts (GAFFTA) will be natural fit for the district, and given the less-than-savory institutions it intends to replace, I think it’s an affirmative testament to the ‘loin’s ongoing evolution. The inaugural exhibition opens October 5th. See ya’ll there.
Mini Coupé Concept
The new Mini Coupé Concept will be making its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show September 17-27, 2009. It appears to be a two-seater, with a tough new profile. Check the deets and photo gallery here.
