Sonic collage: a video-mapping exploration of female and LGBTQIA+ amateur electronic music and sound artists relations with audio technologies

Abstract

In music composition, women, queer, and non-normative bodies often face marginalization, mirroring patterns seen in predominantly white male-dominated fields. This Art-based research unearths the creative ideas and composition processes of six female and LGBTQIA+ amateur electronic music and sound practitioners. It explores the potential of electronics as a liberating medium, echoing Laurie Spiegel's statement, and examines whether this technological usage can be deemed as a good technology. Employing friendship-as-a-method for qualitative interviews, and thematic analysis for data comprehension, the research show that community support is crucial for unlocking artistic potential and countering gender biases in music technology. Also highlight that these music practice empowers individuals to express personal narratives and artistic self-discovery. The analysis of the interviews reveals progress towards gender balance in European counterculture but persistent gendered hierarchies challenge true equality, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for representation and diversity in technical roles. The dissemination of project embraces avant-garde aesthetics. Through video mapping techniques, research extends beyond academic boundaries, sparking dialogues on gender and technology.