Mainnavigation

      • DE
      • EN
    • Watchlist
    • MenuMenu
    You are here:
    1. Research
    2. Institute for Computer Music and Sound Technology
    3. Artists in Residence at ICST
    More: Artists in Residence at ICST

    Residency E: Wave Field Synthesis

    • Description
    • Course of the residency
    • Technical Equipment
    • Support
    • Performance
    • Conditions, Application & Selection Process

    Description

    The ICST has recently completed the construction of a new Wave Field Synthesis (WFS) array, consisting of eight 32-channel modules, for a total of 256 individually addressable loudspeakers. Wave Field Synthesis occupies a unique position among spatial rendering techniques, as it is capable of producing holograph-like sound images within a room by using focused sources. Moreover, by synthesising sound field radiation patterns, WFS enables a consistent perception of sound location throughout the entire space. This eliminates the typical "sweet spot" issue, where the rendered spatial scene can only be experienced in a limited central zone. 

    The call for the ICST Artists in Residence programme on Wave Field Synthesis invites proposals for projects that make creative use of the WFS system during a three-week residency. Purely sonic as well as audio-visual works are equally welcome. Examples include developing spatialisation approaches for already composed material or creating a new work centred on spatial performance. 

    Invited artists will be supported with an introduction to working with the WFS system, software, relevant tools, and approaches for composing spatial rendering, both during the planning stages and at key moments throughout the residency. Please note that residents are expected to work autonomously. To make the best use of the residency, it is recommended that participants prepare their sound and software materials as thoroughly as possible in advance.

    ICST Labor with the Wave Field Snythesis Array. Photo: Rama Gottfried

    Course of the residency

    The maximum duration of the residency is three weeks (21 days). A planning session will be offered in advance to support the artist in developing a work plan.

    Technical Equipment

    The residency will take place in the ICST Labor equipped with the ICST WFS system. Depending on the proposed project, other resources may also be used, such as lighting, projection, gestural interfaces, etc. 

    Support

    Rama Gottfried will be available to answer technical questions throughout the residency.

    Performance

    If there is mutual interest, efforts will be made to present and discuss the results of the residencies in a public performance or an artist talk at the ICST.

    Conditions, Application & Selection Process

    Applications for the Artists in Residence at ICST program must be submitted using the online form.

    This application window is open until 1 September 2025 at 24:00h CET. Candidates will be notified in mid-October 2026. The residencies will be awarded by a jury consisting of ICST researchers and project leaders. 

    Please upload the following documents: 

    • Concept sketch, composition idea or project draft (PDF, 2 pages and 10 MB max.)
    • Portfolio containing three selected works relevant to the residency topic, including links to external media (audio & video) (PDF, 2 pages and 10 MB max.)
    • CV in tabular form containing information on education and career (PDF, 1 page and 10 MB max.) 

    The selected candidates will be notified by email. Together with the notification, they receive the forms required for an invitation to Switzerland and are kindly asked to confirm their participation and return the filled-out forms within 10 days. If the period of 10 days is not observed, the ICST can withdraw the invitation.

    The exact dates for the residencies will be defined individually.

    The residencies include the use of facilities and technical infrastructure as specified in the thematic descriptions, as well as technical support by ICST research staff. 

    Participants will receive a contribution to their expenses for travel to Zurich (up to CHF 300 for persons living in Europe, up to CHF 500 for persons living outside Europe), as well as a per diem to cover meals and accommodation in Zurich during the residency. Participants organise their own travel and accommodation in Zurich, with ICST providing assistance if required.