Exhibited in Art Among the Stars 2025
Asterisms
2024
graphic notation, composition; 15 from series of 304
8.5 x 13 inches (15)
Asterisms is a series of 304 compositions for snare drum, each representing an ancient Chinese constellation (asterism) in the Suzhou star chart c.a. 1247. Each composition uses modern-day astronomical data from the HIPPARCOS catalogue. For each star in each asterism, their stellar magnitude, spectral type, and relative distance are translated into dynamics, stroke patterns, and rhythmic timings. A custom system of graphic notation maps the sonified stars onto the surface of a snare drum.
Asterisms was originally presented as part of my MFA thesis, Sonata for the Body in Three-Part Time. All 304 compositions were recorded and layered into a quadraphonic video projected on the floor. The video visualizes and sonifies my testosterone shots, my menstrual periods, and the visibility of each asterism in the sky, tracking these three cycles across one full calendar year. Here, I’ve chosen a selection of 15 scores, each inspired by another work in this exhibition.
Ranger Liu
Astronomy Department, 1st year Ph.D.
RANGER LIU (they/them) is an artist and astrophysicist interested in using abstract theoretical structures to communicate subjective lived experience. They aim to bridge the gap between "objective" and "subjective" knowledge by cross-applying their truth-making methodologies. Their creative work uses scientific frameworks, including (but not limited to) math, astronomy, physics, and linguistics, to develop physical processes for sonic, visual, and sculptural composition and performance. They hold an MFA in Design and Technology from Parsons School of Design. They are currently studying technosignatures as part of SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) with James Davenport at UW.
