Resonance in Dissonance: Noise and the Aesthetics of Auditory Abstraction
Mariam Basowad
“Dissonance,” “discordance,” and “cacophony” are among the countless negative connotations associated with noise in the
fields of communication and sound studies. In these contexts, noise is often perceived as an “interference” that needs
to be mitigated and controlled. Similar biases exist in communications design, influenced partly by a historical
preference for clarity, order, and coherence, coupled with the belief that noise diverges from conventional design
principles. However, in this thesis, noise is presented as a multisensory entity and a form of emancipation from
established artistic norms. The exploration also highlights the vital role of abstract sonic noise in communication,
considering how to craft more resonant experiences and unlock new possibilities for creativity and expression.
Thesis website: blacknoisehz.com
1Hz. Fragments
Fragments is an immersive video that vividly captures the struggle of identity loss, portraying the fragments left behind by the constant oscillation between Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and France during my formative years. Here, noise is utilized to narrate the story and capture the feeling of dissociation.
2Hz. Black Noise
Black Noise is a series of explorations that delve into capturing the essence of sounds through unconventional means such as linguistic words and hand gestures. While the term “black noise” commonly represents silence, it is metaphorically used to transcend its usual connotations and uncover new dimensions of sounds.
3Hz. 0 dB
0 dB is a speculative book that explores the auditory landscape as noise fades away. Its content is cryptic and treated as an index, symbolizing the ambiguous and abstracted nature of noise.