10 Questions with AMIANGELIKA

AMIANGELIKA is an award-winning new media and experience artist based in London. Her practice revolves around exploring the interconnection between image and sound as well as machine-human interaction, resulting in performance-based and installation-based works. She creates fully generative, real-time rendered pieces that react to live inputs through audio or motion tracking sensors. With her work, AMIANGELIKA aims to create immersive audio-visual environments that help to reinforce and broaden the physical perception of a space.

Her main subject matter explores the mythology from a diverse range of cultures as well as the depths of metaphysics, believing they hold invaluable wisdom that deserves to be revisited and reimagined in the context of the modern world. Such concepts of life and death, chaos and order, love and hate, and light and darkness lay as a foundation for her work, and she aims to translate them and stories around them through experiential communication with the audience.

AMIANGELIKA's collaboration with 1100 and Dance.Film.Performance on 'ICARUS' was a significant achievement and a testament to her role at the forefront of digital and performance art. This project was shortlisted for the 2023 One Dance UK Awards for digital innovation in dance, further highlighting the recognition and impact of her work. Recently, she has been listed for the Artist Association Artist of the Year Award 2024 and won the Golden Time Talent Prize 2024.

AMIANGELIKA has also showcased her work extensively in London and worldwide, including at prestigious venues and events such as Outernet Now Building, Wayne McGregor Studio, Resolution Festival, Dance.Film.Performance Showcase, Pushkin House, Samsung KX, Digital Art Week, HMVC New York Gallery, Currents Santa Fe International New Media Festival, ADE, etc. Moreover, she has another exhibition coming up in July 2024, presenting an excerpt of BLCK SUN as part of PROJECT 22 at Kanvas, Dubai, UAE.

AMIANGELIKA constantly challenges the norms of artistic expression and sets new standards for innovation. As her journey continues, she remains committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary art.

amiangelika.com | @amiangelika

ARTIST STATEMENT

AMIANGELIKA, a London-based new media artist and audiovisual designer, stands out with her unique artistic practice. She delves into the symbiotic relationship between image and sound and the nuanced interplay between machine and human interactions. Her works, which are performance- and installation-based, are not just about using cutting-edge technology but about creating fully generative, real-time rendered events that dynamically respond to live inputs through audio or motion-tracking sensors. Her art is a journey to craft immersive audiovisual environments that captivate, expand, and deepen the physical perception of space.

Central to AMIANGELIKA's oeuvre is her profound fascination with mythology from a broad spectrum of cultures and the rich, often enigmatic realms of metaphysics. She perceives these ancient narratives and philosophical inquiries as repositories of timeless wisdom, brimming with insights that merit revisitation and reinterpretation within the framework of contemporary society. By delving into themes such as life and death, chaos and order, love and hate, and light and darkness, AMIANGELIKA lays the groundwork for her artistic creations. She endeavours to convey these universal concepts and the stories they encapsulate through a deeply experiential dialogue with her audience.

AMIANGELIKA's installations are not just visual spectacles but are designed to be holistic experiences that engage multiple senses. By integrating technologies like motion tracking and audio analysis, her works react and evolve in real-time based on the presence and actions of the viewers. This creates a participatory environment where the audience is not merely an observer but an integral artwork component. The sensory feedback loop generated in these spaces fosters a heightened awareness of the interconnectedness between the self, the artwork, and the surrounding environment, making each viewer a vital part of the artistic experience. This unique approach ensures that every viewer feels engaged and integral to the creative experience, enhancing the overall impact of the installation.

In her exploration of mythology, AMIANGELIKA draws inspiration from diverse cultural stories and symbols. For instance, she may juxtapose the Norse myths of creation and destruction with Greek tales of heroism and tragedy. She aims to highlight the shared human experience across different civilisations and periods through this syncretic approach. Her work often seeks to transcend cultural boundaries, inviting viewers to reflect on their beliefs and the universal narratives that bind humanity together.

AMIANGELIKA's artistic process is a testament to the power of collaboration. She often engages in interdisciplinary partnerships with musicians, dancers, programmers, and other creatives, enhancing the richness of her work. This cooperative spirit brings diverse perspectives and expertise, contributing to the complexity and depth of her installations. She believes that art is a collective endeavour that thrives on exchanging ideas and the fusion of different forms of expression, inviting the audience to appreciate her creations' diverse and rich tapestry.

Her performances are a testament to the power of technology as a medium for storytelling and emotional engagement. She uses tools like real-time audio synthesis, visual projection mapping, and interactive sensors to construct immersive narratives that unfold in the moment, guided by both the artist's vision and the audience's participation. These live events are ephemeral yet profoundly impactful, leaving lasting impressions that challenge conventional perceptions of art and reality.

In essence, AMIANGELIKA's work is a continuous journey of discovery and reinterpretation. She seeks to create art that entertains and engages, provokes thought, and fosters a deeper understanding of the human condition. Through her innovative technology use and profound engagement with mythology and metaphysics, she offers a unique and compelling artistic experience that resonates on multiple levels. Her installations and performances invite audiences to step into a world where the boundaries between the physical and the metaphysical, the ancient and the modern, and the individual and the collective blur and merge, creating a space for reflection, connection, and transformation, inspiring and moving the audience in profound ways.

INTERVIEW

Can you tell us about your artistic journey and what initially drew you to the field of new media and experience art?

My artistic journey started with an extensive experimentation period exploring abstract photography and videography. I realized that I resonated with a darker aesthetic during this formative period, primarily embracing monochrome tones. The interplay of light against a black canvas enabled me to illuminate the contours of my innermost concerns, presenting them in a pure and ethereal form—a striking contrast to the surrounding darkness.
Around this time, my artistic endeavours began intertwining with my exploration of metaphysical concepts and mythology. As a big fan of mythological texts from various cultures, I explored existential themes through both my experiences and those of others. This curiosity naturally evolved into a desire to visually encapsulate stories, creating immersive environments where narratives could be felt rather than told, appealing directly to the senses without the mediation of words.
During a particularly challenging phase in my personal life, this mode of expression became a cathartic outlet for my emotions, resonating deeply with others who shared my perspective. The affirming feedback I received confirmed the importance of my work and encouraged me to explore it further.
A turning point came when a friend introduced me to TouchDesigner. Initially hesitant due to my long-standing familiarity with Adobe products, my outlook changed after I attended a solo show by United Visual Artists at 180 The Strand. The show was a revelation, showcasing the transformative power of integrating art and technology to shape environments and influence audience perceptions. Inspired by this experience, I came back that night and opened Touchdesigner again, marking a shift in my career. What started as a curious exploration quickly grew into a dedicated commitment to new media and experiential art, leading to a continually unfolding and exciting journey. 

Your art often involves machine-human interaction. How do you incorporate technologies like audio or motion-tracking sensors in your installations and performances?

When starting a new project, I carefully consider the type of interaction that will best convey the piece's message. I gather references that align with the narrative and artistic direction of the project, weaving them into a cohesive whole. This planning is balanced with spontaneity, embracing experimentation and the uncertainty of happy accidents that can add unique elements.
Collaboration is essential to my practice. I work with diverse interdisciplinary artists, including music producer 1100 and the contemporary dance company Dance.Film.Performance. Together, we explore the dynamic intersections of movement, sound, and visual art, constantly pushing the boundaries of traditional performance and installation art. Real-time technologies ensure that each showcase is an evolving experience, never the same twice, and break down conventional barriers between the audience and the artwork.
In my installations, I aim to transform viewers into participants, blurring the lines between the observer and the creator.These pieces are designed for viewing and for experiencing and responding to in real time. I believe this approach deepens audience engagement, highlights art's transient, temporary nature in the digital age, and breaks the fourth wall, which makes my work a living dialogue between the artwork and its audience. 

Mythology and metaphysics are central themes in your work, as you mention in your statement. What aspects of these subjects are most inspiring, and how do you integrate them into your art?

My practice is deeply rooted in Norse and Greek mythology. These mythologies, with their intricate tales of chaos and order, love and hate, and life and death, form a foundation upon which I build my narratives. For instance, Greek mythology's saga of Gaia, Uranus, and the Titans captures the eternal struggle between creation and destruction—a theme that echoes throughout my work. Similarly, with its cyclical nature of end and rebirth, the Norse tale of Ragnarok beautifully illustrates the tension between endings and new beginnings. These universal themes provide a compelling framework that resonates in my work.
Integrating these mythological narratives into my practice is intuitive and intricate. It is like weaving a delicate fabric, where each thread is meticulously chosen and carefully integrated to contribute to the overall narrative while maintaining balance within the piece's overall aesthetic. This metaphorical translation of ancient stories allows me to draw correlations with the contemporary world, creating a seamless blend of the past and present.
In my work, I aim to embody the essence of these myths through powerful imagery and profound themes. Symbolism and thematic parallels are crucial to me, connecting ancient insights with modern-day experiences. This synthesis of myth and metaphor enables me to address complex metaphysical questions through a visually and emotionally engaging medium and to weave timeless yet acutely relevant stories to today's audience, offering a profound connection between the viewer and the eternal truths embodied in mythological tales. 

How do you approach the interconnection between image and sound in your work? Can you give an example of a piece where this interplay is particularly significant?

I usually connect the machine that handles generative visuals using Touchdesigner to another machine that outputs sound through an OSC or MIDI protocol connection to achieve this. This setup allows me to receive the direct audio signal sent to the speakers, multiple triggers, and other data with minimal latency. I then map this data to various visual parameters, like the objects' x, y, or z positions in the visual space. This makes the visuals audio-reactive, so they respond dynamically to specific elements of the track as they're triggered.
A great example of this technique is my recent audiovisual performance titled BLCK SUN, which I developed in collaboration with producer 1100. We premiered it in June at the Currents New Media Festival in Santa Fe, New Mexico. During our set, 1100 continuously sent me a variety of pre-prepared triggers and audio cues, ensuring that particular visual effects were perfectly timed. While we program the main triggers for significant changes in advance, we also, since it is a live show, leave room for improvisation. This real-time interplay between sound and image brings our performance to life, creating an immersive and compelling experience for everyone involved.

Ultimately, what is your creative process like? How do you go from the first idea to the outcome?

My creative process is as dynamic and fluid as the projects I undertake. Each is unique, and the journey from initial idea to outcome can take various paths. Sometimes, the visual concept comes to me immediately, almost as a flash of inspiration, and then I work towards understanding its underlying meaning. Other times, the context and the concept come first. I start with a conceptual foundation and work towards visualizing it. There are also moments when my process involves collaborative experimentation during research and development sessions. These sessions can lead to unexpected discoveries and genuinely innovative ideas.
I have a deep passion for experimenting with new technologies. Occasionally, a project starts from a simple text to my collaborators about a new interactive setup I've stumbled upon. From there, we build the entire concept around this new technological discovery, pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
There are instances where a particular storyline captivates me. I aim to "feel" it visually through texture and mood. I create a mood board filled with references, constantly comparing it to the story to ensure harmony. I believe thissubjective approach gives my work a personal touch. Following this, I create numerous prototypes that align with the mood board and then step back to view the entire composition, deciding what elements enhance the vision and which ones need refinement.
Though varied, this process is deeply intuitive and reflects my artistic journey. It allows me to stay true to my vision while remaining open to the unexpected, ultimately leading to innovative and deeply personal creations.

Your immersive audiovisual environments aim to enhance the physical perception of space. How do you achieve this effect, and what kind of experience do you hope to create for your audience?

In my work, the interplay of story and space is crucial. I constantly consider how the audience will react to various lighting conditions—whether they're in a room filled with white light, in pure darkness, or surrounded by strobing lights. These sensory effects are designed to evoke specific emotional states, which are amplified when combined with music or dance. Humans naturally perceive space through our senses, intuitively feeling surfaces and judging distances. But by adding visual elements onto the walls, I can manipulate this perception, transforming a space to make the audience feel as if they're inside a small box or wandering through an ethereal garden.
With each performance or installation, I aim to create different perceptions and tell unique stories. My goal is for the audience to momentarily lose themselves in the experience, finding personal significance and insights within the narrative.

Innovation and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression are key to your practice. How do you stay ahead of technological advancements and continuously evolve your art?

I constantly immerse myself in various technologies, analyzing their potential to enhance my narrative. Each project becomes a playground for incorporating something that excites me technologically or introduces an element I've never encountered before. This approach keeps my work fresh and engaging and pushes me to explore new territories.
Take, for instance, the dance performance "Poem of Rua," which I premiered with Matthew Howard during the Resolution Festival in London last February. Initially, Matthew envisioned using a floor projection to display my visuals. However, I suggested creating an interactive floor projection instead. We used an infrared camera rigged above the stage to track the performers' positions. By linking these coordinates to the visuals, we created projections that followed the performers around the stage. This added a layer of technological sophistication and ignited my passion for interactive floor methods—a concept I had long wanted to explore.
This experience highlighted a crucial aspect of my approach: integrating new technology should enhance, not overshadow, the conceptual essence of the work. The goal is to add a touch of "magic," making the integration appear effortless, even though it involves countless nights of programming and troubleshooting.
Incorporating cutting-edge technology is not about creating a spectacle for its own sake. It's about enhancing the audience's experience, adding depth to the narrative, and challenging myself to evolve continuously. This philosophy drives my artistic practice, ensuring that I remain at the forefront of innovation while staying true to the core of my creative vision.
I believe this commitment to learning and adaptation keeps my work relevant and compelling in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. It's a journey of discovery, where each project becomes a testament to the harmonious blend of art and technology, pushing the boundaries of what's possible and inspiring others to do the same.

You've exhibited your work in various prestigious venues worldwide. How do different locations and cultures influence your installations and performances?

Regarding my installations and performances, the space and its unique capabilities are crucial to achieving the desired effect. For example, with BLCK SUN, we had the opportunity to showcase at the Outernet Now Building in London during Digital Art Week and later at the Currents New Media Festival in Santa Fe. The contrast between these two venues was striking. Outernet uses five large-scale LED displays, while Currents features a single projector screen. Thispresented a fascinating challenge: how to adapt a piece initially designed for one screen to five without simply replicating the content. Instead, I aimed to create an immersive experience, wrapping the viewer in the world of BLCK SUN.
The evolution of the work in different spaces and cultural contexts is genuinely captivating. Each venue brings its own set of parameters and audience expectations, which can transform the perception and impact of the piece. Observing how diverse audiences around the globe react and interpret the work is gratifying. People, shaped by their unique environments and cultural backgrounds, bring varied perspectives to the metaphors we present. Despite these differences, we have successfully communicated our artistic vision and metaphors in every location we've exhibited.
In London, the high-tech, bustling atmosphere of the Outernet Now Building added a layer of modernity and dynamism to BLCK SUN. The interplay of the five LED displays allowed us to explore new dimensions of visual storytelling, creating a multi-faceted experience that captivated the audience. On the other hand, the intimate and contemplative setting of the Currents New Media Festival in Santa Fe encouraged a more reflective engagement with the piece. The single projector screen demanded a focused and deliberate adaptation, which fostered a deeper connection with the viewers.
It's not just the physical space that influences the work but also the cultural context. Each audience, shaped by their unique cultural lenses, interprets the metaphors in BLCK SUN differently. This diversity of interpretation is one of the most exciting aspects of exhibiting internationally. The piece takes on a new life in every new setting, unexpectedly resonating with the local audience.
Ultimately, these experiences underscore the universality of art and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. Despite varying interpretations, the core emotions and themes of BLCK SUN remain accessible to all. This universality is a testament to the power of art to connect people across different cultures and environments, creating a shared space for reflection and dialogue.

With upcoming exhibitions like BLCK SUN at PROJECT 22 in Dubai, what new elements or themes are you exploring in your latest works?

As I prepare for the upcoming exhibition at PROJECT 22 in Dubai, I am thrilled to share the latest developments in the BLCK SUN series. This show continues my exploration into how BLCK SUN can seamlessly integrate into diverse spaces and cultural contexts. The Kanvas Gallery, where the exhibition will be held, boasts a state-of-the-art projector setup that covers four surfaces, offering a unique canvas for the work.
PROJECT 22 presented us with a fun challenge: create a 22-second version of BLCK SUN that utilizes all four surfaces. This brief but immersive experience required us to innovate and incorporate new visual elements harmonizing with the gallery's dynamic environment. The result is a visually striking iteration that respects the original work and pushes its boundaries.
The BLCK SUN project delves into universal themes, notably the journey of following one's heart and navigating the often daunting darkness of the mind. These themes resonate deeply with anyone who has dared to pursue their true path despite inner and outer challenges. While I regret that I won't be able to attend the exhibition in person, I hope that viewers will find a personal connection with the narrative.

Lastly, what advice would you give emerging artists who want to experiment with new media and technology?

As an artist exploring new media and technology, I suggest embracing the journey of experimentation. Take the time to dive deeply into the software or techniques that intrigue you. Don't fear creating imperfect work; whether a success or failure, each piece helps you understand your preferences and refine your craft. Working with new media allows you to break traditional boundaries, so liberate yourself to make mistakes and learn from them. This process will foster a unique artistic voice.
Equally important is networking. Share your creations, engage in conversations, and educate others about the potential of new media. By doing so, you become an ambassador for this evolving field, helping to demystify and celebrate the technological magic it brings to art.
Stay curious and passionate, and push the boundaries of what's possible. Your journey isn't just about mastering tools but inspiring and educating others. Embrace this adventure with an open heart and fearless spirit and always trust your inner voice.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.