We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rosa Park. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rosa below.
Rosa, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
As a sound artist and designer, my journey began in an unexpected way— through silence. Growing up in a challenging household and carrying the weight of traumatic childhood memories, I was always in search of a quiet space of my own. That space became the attic in my grandmother’s house, where I found solace in the silence and subtle sounds around me. The rustling of leaves, birds chirping outside, the soft meowing of two little cats, and the distant murmur of my grandmother’s television— these gentle sonic memories became the foundation of my sound work, continuously nourishing my inner growth and strength.
When I began experimenting with sound as an artist, it wasn’t just about crafting melodies or music. It was more about capturing the essence of my surroundings and transforming those experiences into something that resonates with other beings. I learned to listen attentively, understanding that every sound represents a sign of life and, therefore, holds meaning.
I would say my creative journey has not been easy, but it has taught me resilience and adaptability, fueling a deep sense of optimism. Every challenge has revealed new potential and opportunities for growth. Just as sound is always present, waiting to be discovered, shaped, and shared, even in the most difficult moments, there is rhythm and harmony in our surroundings, waiting to be heard.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Hello, my name is Rosa Park. I am a sound artist deeply fascinated by the intersection of sound, perception, and space and my work primarily focuses on sound installation and soundscape ecology. I am passionate about exploring the relationship between sound and our environment, creating immersive experiences that invite listeners to engage with the subtle, often overlooked sonic elements of the world around us. What excites me most about this work is the ability to transform everyday, mundane sounds into powerful narratives, making the invisible audible and highlighting the interconnection of all living things.
In addition to my work as a sound artist, I am also a sound designer and educator in the School of Cinema at San Francisco State University, where I teach sound design for cinema and experimental filmmaking. I have the privilege of fostering the next generation of independent filmmakers and sound artists, which is something I am most proud of. My teaching emphasizes the importance of sound in storytelling, encouraging students to think critically about how sound can enhance and shape their films.
Right now, I am particularly excited about a few upcoming projects that merge my interests in soundscape ecology and film installation. I am also expanding my educational efforts, developing new workshops and courses that will delve deeper into the role of sound in experimental filmmaking. It’s an exciting time for both my artistic and professional endeavors, and I am eager to continue pushing the boundaries of what sound can do.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Experimentation has played a pivotal role in my creative journey. Exploring new media and technologies has led me to innovative ways to visualize and spatialize sound. Every failure from my studio has also resulted in unexpected discoveries and growth. So in my classes, I always encourage my students to stay curious, push beyond their comfort zones, and view failures as stepping stones to developing a unique artistic voice.
My own experiences with sound art conferences, exhibitions, festivals, and collaborations have been invaluable, which not only allowed me to connect with incredible artists and researchers but also opened doors to future partnerships that have significantly enriched my practice. So for artists who are early in their journey, I recommend actively seeking opportunities to engage in art practice through various exhibitions, collaborative projects, or even small local events. Building a strong network and cultivating relationships with fellow artists and creative professionals is essential.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
One book that has deeply inspired me is “Silence: Lectures and Writings” by John Cage, the most influential American composer and avant-garde artist. Cage was renowned for his innovative approach to sound, challenging traditional notions of music and silence. This book is a collection of his writings and lectures, offers profound insights into his concepts of chance, silence, and the intersection of art and life. His advocacy for embracing randomness and uncertainty in the creative process has been a major source of inspiration for me.
Cage’s concept of ‘chance operations’ encourages artists to let go of control and allow unexpected outcomes to shape their work. His redefinition of silence, not as the absence of sound but as a space rich with potential and meaning, has also profoundly influenced my practice, including my sound installation titled “Absence and Presence.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rosapark.org/
Image Credits
Rosa Park, James Ken Butler
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