Steina and Woody Vasulka

Matrix, 1970-1972

"Matrix is a series of multi-monitor works that explores the relationship of sound and image in electronic signals: sound as generated by the electronic image; sound that creates an image; and sound and image created simultaneously. Here, the Vasulkas realize sound visually, generating abstract aural and visual images simultaneously. Shapes and forms skid, roll, and metamorphose across multiple screens like sound traveling through geometric space to our ear. In these matrices, the Vasulkas reduce the image and sound to their bare essentials in order to examine the essence of the electronic image and sound-the signal. A phenomenological exercise on the construction of electronic image and sound, this series is also a playful study of movement in which abstract forms travel across multiple screens to symbolize the kinetics of electronic signals." (1)

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(1) Marita Sturken cited from Matrix 1970-72 (six loops of horizontal movement) Steina and Woody Vasulka (Description and technical data sheet of the video installation Matrix, January 9, 1995) n.p. Daniel Langlois Foundation, Steina and Woody Vasulka Fonds, VAS B4-C10.