2015

Rob Kunz

2015 Awardee Rob Kunz

Robb Kunz is a prolific sound artist and engineer. He creates immersive, often renegade, sonic installations in public places as a way to inspire people to unplug, embrace a deeper sense of listening and connection, and confront social and political concerns.

Kunz's exploration of artifice, acoustics, architecture and place creates a shared experience for unsuspecting audiences. His "sculptures," handmade electronics and kinetic elements built from repurposed materials, broadcast elaborate and shifting compositions.

Originally from Oklahoma, Kunz was heavily influenced by the powerful tornado and air raid sirens that punctuated his life on a weekly basis. They continue to be his primary influence. Upon moving to Seattle, following the 1999 WTO protests, he became a central member of the Infernal Noise Brigade. He is also a member of Degenerate Art Ensemble and founded the Berlin-based group, Alcalica. He teaches, engineers and produces recordings, creates affordable stereo systems and museum exhibits out of reclaimed and surplus parts, and keeps a studio at INSCAPE.