Abstract

This thesis explores various compositional strategies in light and sound installations using luminosonic objects: objects which appear to emit both sound and light. Contrary to accounts of media installations which are analyzed from a visual art perspective, in this research, audiovisual installations are analyzed through the application and adaptation of musical concepts and language to the installation context. In particular, selected audiovisual installations are analyzed with respect to the constitution,
or compositional dynamics, of audiovisual materials. This analysis results in a typology of audiovisual relations, represented within a three-dimensional compositional state-space.
Furthermore, the production of audiovisual, spatio-temporal compositional structures within the installation context is investigated in relation to the embodied, mobile spectator. The elucidation of audiovisual materials and spatio-temporal structures is illustrated through analysis of selected works, as well as through original artistic output. Finally, several implications of this interdisciplinary research are suggested in relation to the fields of audiovisual installation and contemporary music composition.