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Repurposing the Past: The Phantastron and appropriating history as a DIY approach

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 November 2013

Lorin Edwin Parker
Lorin Edwin Parker*
Affiliation:
Electronic Media Division, College-Conservatory of Music, 4200 Mary Emery Hall, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0003, USA E-mail: [email protected]
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Abstract

Historical models may often provide some of the greatest inspiration for the creation of new technologies. A DIY approach appropriating older paradigms in technology is discussed, with special attention paid to how old concepts can become relevant within a modern context. The author's electronic instrument, the Phantastron, is introduced as an example of this DIY approach. The Phantastron's creation is detailed in practice and methods such as repurposing, redesigning, hacking and circuit bending upon a historical design are described. A wider angle is then cast upon the concept of repurposing older technologies, and the works of other artists and DIY makers are considered. The concept that antiquated technology is in the common domain and ready to be utilised in the synthesis of new ideas is discussed. Finally, a generalised DIY approach to integrating historical ideas into new creations is posited.

Type
Articles
Information
Organised Sound , Volume 18 , Special Issue 3: Re-wiring Electronic Music , December 2013 , pp. 292 - 298
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2013 

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