after (fleeting retention)

Short Description

after (fleeting retention) is an immersive audiovisual installation exploring the ephemerality of memory through powerful LED flashes and generative ambient sound. A modified Kodak Carousel slide projector displays semicontextualized black-and-white negatives, triggering fleeting afterimages in the viewer's perception. Random sequencing and brief bursts of light accentuate the instability of recollection and create a tense relation between visual intensity and slow sonic drift.

Core Components

• Modified Kodak Carousel slide projector with wide-angle lens
• Ultra-bright LED light source with heat sink
• ESP32-based microcontroller for flash and slide switching
• 81-slide carousel with archival negatives
• Intel NUC running generative audio software
• Audio interface and stereo loudspeaker system
• Low-level red navigation light

Dimensions / Duration / Scalability

• Approximate installation footprint: 3.5 m wide x 3.5 m deep
• Minimum room size: 4 x 4 m
• Recommended room size: larger enclosed room with comfortable visitor circulation
• Projection distance should allow a large-scale image, ideally floor-to-ceiling if the room permits
• Packed dimensions:
• 1 Eurobox, 40 x 60 x 40 cm, approx. 15 kg
• 2 loudspeakers, approx. 12 kg each, plus stands
• 1 projector tripod or stand, approx. 6 kg
• Sound and flashes run continuously during opening hours
• Flash events are brief and variable
• Slide transitions occur unpredictably

Spatial Requirements

• A separated and enclosed room is strongly recommended
• Full blackout is required
• A double curtain or similar light-trap at the entrance is recommended
• Stable flooring with minimal reflective surfaces
• Mid-to-high sound level requires acoustic separation from neighboring works
• Low humidity, low dust, and generally clean conditions are required for reliable operation

Technical Requirements Provided by Venue

• 220 V / 50 Hz / approx. 3 A, Schuko
• Dark-colored power strip with at least 6 outlets
• Maximum distance to electrical source: approx. 4 m
• Black Molton or equivalent blackout material for windows, doors, and stray light
• Curtains or layered drapes for entrance light control
• One or two low-intensity red LED fixtures or red-filter lamps near the entrance
• Gaffer tape or cable covers for floor cable management
• Warning sign for bright flashes and dark-room conditions
• If applicable, additional local archival negatives can be discussed in advance

Components Provided by Artist

• Kodak Carousel projector with wide-angle 36 mm lens
• Modified LED light source with heat sink
• Microcontroller-based flash and slide switching system
• Archival slide carousel
• Intel NUC with generative audio software
• Behringer UMC1820 audio interface
• Two 150 W loudspeakers on stands
• Projector stand
• Audio, USB, and power cables
• Protective packaging

Sound

The installation uses a generative drone-ambient soundtrack with random accent peaks linked to flash events. The work should ideally be presented in an acoustically separated environment. Sound bleed to or from neighboring works should be minimized.

Light

• The room should remain fully dark during operation
• No white ambient light should remain visible
• Low red navigation light is acceptable and recommended for orientation

Safety

• Bright flashes may affect photosensitive visitors; warning signage at the entrance is required
• Visitors need minimal orientation guidance in the dark space
• All stands and loudspeakers must be positioned securely
• Cables must be taped down or protected
• The LED module requires ventilation and stable heat management
• Control devices and audio interface should be placed away from foot traffic
• Periodic supervision by venue staff is recommended

Transport

• 1 Eurobox with projector, control system, and cables
• 2 loudspeakers with stands in separate transport units, or compatible local stereo system by agreement
• 1 projector stand or tripod bag
• All equipment is fragile and must be handled with care

Setup / Deinstallation

• Approximate installation time: 1 working day
• Room blackout should be prepared before final setup if possible
• Projector position, focus, sound calibration, and flash testing should be completed by the artist
• Local assistance may be needed for blackout setup, cable routing, and handling loudspeakers

Daily Operation

• Turn on Intel NUC, then audio interface, then loudspeakers
• The microcontroller runs automatically after startup
• Check that the slide carousel advances correctly
• Check that no slide is jammed and that the lens remains clean
• Basic visual inspection of cables, stands, and ventilation is recommended each day

Maintenance

• The work contains mechanical and optical components that may require periodic adjustment
• The slide carousel transport, flash behavior, LED cooling, and audio chain should be checked regularly
• For long exhibition periods, maintenance or troubleshooting by the artist may become necessary
• For multi-month exhibitions, service conditions and possible travel costs should be agreed in advance

Insurance Value

• Kodak Carousel projector: EUR 500
• Wide-angle 36 mm lens: EUR 500
• LED module and heat sink: EUR 400
• Microcontroller and relay system: EUR 1000
• Slide carousel with archival negatives: EUR 1000
• Intel NUC: EUR 300
• Audio interface: EUR 200
• Loudspeakers and stands: EUR 700
• Cables and miscellaneous components: EUR 500
• Packaging: EUR 200
• Total insurance value: EUR 5300

Additional Notes

• The artist provides on-site installation when possible
• The work can be adapted to specific room situations after prior discussion
• Automatic shutdown can be configured if venue opening hours are fixed