Meaning: The quote by Alva Noto sheds light on the creative process of sound design and music production. Alva Noto, whose real name is Carsten Nicolai, is a renowned German musician, visual artist, and sound designer known for his innovative and experimental approach to electronic music and audiovisual art. In this quote, he articulates his approach to creating sounds and manipulating them through various generators, drawing an intriguing parallel between working with sound and the process of opening different file types.

Alva Noto's statement, "I usually create sounds and have different generators running over it," offers insight into his methodology as a sound artist. Generating sounds involves the use of various tools and techniques, such as synthesizers, samplers, and digital audio workstations, to produce and manipulate audio elements. The concept of having different generators running over the sounds suggests a dynamic and layered approach to sound creation, where multiple processes and effects are applied to shape and transform the original source material.

The analogy Alva Noto draws between opening a word file as a picture or vice versa and working with sounds highlights his unconventional and multidisciplinary perspective. Just as a file can be opened in a different format to reveal unexpected content, Alva Noto seems to approach sound as a malleable medium that can be reinterpreted and repurposed in unconventional ways. This perspective aligns with his broader artistic practice, which often blurs the boundaries between music, visual art, and technology.

Alva Noto's comparison of working with sounds to the process of opening different file types also speaks to the fluid and adaptable nature of digital media. In the digital realm, files can often be repurposed and manipulated across different formats, allowing for creative experimentation and reinterpretation. By likening his creative process to this fluidity, Alva Noto emphasizes the malleability and potential for exploration inherent in working with sound in the digital age.

Furthermore, the quote reflects Alva Noto's affinity for merging artistic disciplines and pushing the boundaries of audiovisual expression. As an artist who has collaborated with visual artists, architects, and designers, he is known for creating immersive audiovisual installations and performances that integrate sound, light, and spatial design. His approach to sound as a versatile and adaptable medium aligns with his broader practice of exploring the intersection of art, technology, and sensory experience.

In conclusion, Alva Noto's quote provides valuable insight into his approach to sound creation and manipulation, emphasizing the dynamic and experimental nature of his creative process. By drawing parallels between working with sounds and the fluidity of digital file formats, he offers a glimpse into his multidisciplinary and boundary-pushing artistic practice. Ultimately, the quote encapsulates Alva Noto's innovative spirit and his ongoing exploration of the possibilities inherent in sound, technology, and artistic collaboration.