About
Purpose
The Mutant Audio Outpost is a Burning Man theme camp which serves as a haven and community space for those interested in creating and/or hearing unusual and unorthodox sonic textures. In creating this camp we intend to not only bring our own form of expression to the Playa, but to blur the lines between performer and audience as much as possible. Rather than keep our music making techniques ambiguous we are choosing instead to share them with as many people as we can, allowing them to control these sounds themselves and learn how they are created and manipulated.
Interactivity
At various times throughout the week, we will be hosting musical performances by the artists within our camp as well as guest artists. Some of these performances will consist of the performers themselves being the only ones controlling and creating the sounds. At other times, the audience will play a key role in the sound generation process, as the performers invite them to manipulate instruments and devices themselves.
Whenever a planned performance is not taking place, the camp will be given over to more free form experimentation and interaction. Anyone who comes in can play with our devices, learn how to create unusual sounds themselves, and take part in discussions and workshops pertaining to this art form. It is
this type of activity which will occupy the majority of time in our camp.
Structure/Layout
Requested space : 75′x100′
The covered area of our camp will consist of a 30′x30′ shade structure made from 1″ thick EMT conduit , with side walls coming down at angles. A courtyard area, located in front of this structure, will contain a collection of sculptures, all of which will make sounds when interacted with. Each of these sculptures will also by illuminated in one way or another for visibility and safety at night. The courtyard area will also contain ambient lighting and a sign for our camp.
Within the covered area, there will be a “sound booth” of sorts. From here the audio signals from the various instruments used in camp can be mixed, controlled, and effected. This sound booth will also house an array of electronic devices, including effects processors, feedback loop arrays, circuit bent children’s toys, and a variety of other sound generating items. Sections of carpet and a variety of chairs and cushions will provide spaces to sit down and relax.
Behind the main structure of our camp will be a small shade area for our personal space and kitchen. Our tents and vehicles will be located next to this structure, as well as our generator (placed within a sound baffle and only used if needed) and our shower/evap pond.
Lights will be placed throughout the camp for illumination and safety. Any exposed stakes or rebar will be capped and any guylines will be marked and illuminated.