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Utility-Intertied Signal Generation & Transfer
Intermod Series No.5
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On January 26, 2004, a mailer was sent to the Lampo list, stating plainly that "USG&T will begin sending the signal using the utility powerline network." Recipients were directed to the Lampo Web site for details and invited to log their responses in an online journal.
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The project, from Chicago artist Brennan McGaffey, distributed an Extremely Low Frequency pulse into localized areas of the city.
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"Transmission occurred by using and altering the electromagnetic field surrounding the powerline network," explains the artist in his archived USG&T information. "The signal was inaudible and relied on passive bio-reception. A special portable electronic unit was designed to plug into the grid and automatically pattern the pulse-wave signal, distributing it using the network's alternating current. These Conditioning Units (CUs) were concentrated into five local areas."
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Lampo and McGaffey worked together for several months, discussing the project, designing USG&T logos and printed materials, editing the online text and programming the Web site. The intentionally enigmatic mailer mimicked utility bills and other impersonal, official-looking mail. The online text and FAQ appeared to explain the project but, in fact, were purposely confusing.
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The work is striking for its redundant, insistent silence—rather than a concert, a non-event; an anonymous mailing that informs individuals an inaudible signal has been sent remotely; scientific and precise on the one hand, with a detailed explanation and online FAQ, but resolutely mysterious and opaque.
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Brennan McGaffey (b. 1967) has had solo presentations of his projects at Lampo (2004), TBA Exhibition Space (1999), and RX Gallery (1996), all in Chicago. He has also participated in a number of group exhibitions and collaborations including "Audio Relay" (2002-ongoing), an autonomous, mobile radio station; "Low Altitude Atmospheric and Civic Modifications" (2001), a five-month project hosted by Temporary Services that consisted of mood-enhancing micro-modifications of Chicago's near atmosphere environment; "Active Music: A New Music Marathon," Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago (2000); and "Wall Work," White Columns, New York (1998). McGaffey is the recipient of the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Individual Artist's Grant (2001) and a Finalist Award from the Illinois Arts Council (2000).
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Lampo would like to thank Brennan McGaffey and Bill Milosz.
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About the size of a typewriter, the CU's integrated components produce the signal's pulsed modulations.
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Map shows USG&T designated area reception.
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