The Owl Project

Owl Project is a collaborative group of Manchester based artists who share interests in human interaction with technology and process led art. The group currently consists of Simon Blackmore, Antony Hall and Steve Symons. Over the last few years we have become known for a distinctive range of wooden musical and sculptural instruments that critique human interaction with computer interfaces and our increasing appetite for new and often disposable technologies.

Self-made instruments:

The iLog is a stand alone noise generator. It is powered and outputs an audio signal. The iLog should fit in the palm of the hand and is normally made using this semicircular cross section of a branch. At its base is the power socket and at its top is the audio out put.

ILog models:
Metro - Beat generator (2001)
Signal - Tone generator (2003)
Rustle - Voice sampler (2005)
Photo-synthesiser - AM detector (2007)
Modulator - Effects & feedback (2008)


Sound Lathe is a new piece of work by the Owl Project that explores of the sonic properties of woodwork.The Sound Lathe produces audio data, saw dust, noise and wood chippings. With this human powered machine, turned spindles are shaped into complex sounds such as tones, glitches and beats.


The Log1k is a sequencer & sampler, which also contains; Signal generators and other noise making devices.It has several, Mic inputs and 8 Audio outputs. It requires around 24 AA batteries. A mains 240v Fluorescent tube provides a screen like glowing panel which also provides electrical interference. The Log1K is defined by being constructed from a fully circle log section. This is divided into two half's and hinged at one side; thus giving it a laptop like appearance.

Log 1k - Operating systems:
Badger 2001,
Squirrel 2002,
Stoat 2003.

The Log1K was removed from operation after damaging several sound systems and catching speakers on fire.


m-Log is the latest development in Owl Project technology; a powered USB controller interface. The m-Log fits in the palm of the hand and is made using a semicircular cross section of a branch (Just like the iLog). Inside the m-Log is the muio interface (www.muio.org).
Available with a range of built-in sensor inputs (light sensors, accelerometers) it has plug-in and play compatibility with a wide variety of interactive audio applications, notably MAX MSP, SuperCollider, and is particularly fun with ixi Quarks (ixi-audio.net).

Link: http://www.owlproject.com/