Abstract
“Dissonance,” “discordance,” and “cacophony” are among the countless negative connotations associated with noise in the fields of communication, musicology, and sound studies. In these contexts, noise is often perceived as an “interference” that needs to be mitigated and controlled. Similar biases exist in communications design, influenced partly by a historical preference for clarity, order, and coherence, coupled with the belief that noise diverges from conventional design principles. However, this research reframes noise as an event, a flux, a multisensory entity, and, most importantly, a means of emancipation from established artistic norms. The study explores the vital role of abstract sonic noise in communication, considering how to craft more resonant and immersive experiences and unlock new possibilities for creativity and expression. Moreover, it examines how the attributes of noise can be integrated into design methodologies. To achieve this objective, the research surveys sound, philosophy, and communication studies, drawing upon the insights of esteemed philosophers and composers, including Jacques Attali, Salomé Voegelin, and Luigi Russolo. Additionally, it investigates historical and contemporary practices of incorporating noise in creative fields, such as music and audiovisual art. Through a synthesis of theoretical and practical experimentation, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of noise as a communicative and resonant medium.
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Thinking, Learning, Doing: Plural Ways of Design
KEYWORDS
Communications Design, Design Methodology, Design Thinking, Design Principles, Sound, Noise
