by InTrieste
In a fusion of artistry and technology, Alberto Novello, known by his stage moniker JesterN, is illuminating stages across the United States with his mesmerizing laser show. Hailing from the quaint town of Manzano in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Novello brings a unique blend of creativity and scientific inquiry to his performances, captivating audiences with his innovative approach to light and sound.
JesterN’s practice transcends conventional boundaries, repurposing found or decontextualized analogue devices to delve into the intricate connections between light and sound. Through contemplative installations and performances, he breathes new life into forgotten relics of our analogue past: oscilloscopes, early game consoles, analogue video mixers, and lasers. It’s a symphony of technology as he meticulously repairs and modifies these devices, drawn to their inherent limitations and distinctive “personalities” — from fluid beam movements to vibrant colors, from infinite resolution to the absence of frame rate, each element contributing to the rich tapestry of his artistic expression.
But JesterN’s work is more than just a spectacle; it’s a catalyst for introspection. By juxtaposing the ubiquitous digital projections with the vibrant allure of analogue beams, he invites audiences to ponder the sociopolitical implications of technology in a retrospective on technologization. What does “old” truly signify in an era obsessed with the “new,” and what intrinsic value does the latter genuinely add?
Novello’s journey through the realms of art and science is as illustrious as his performances. A graduate in Nuclear Physics from the University of Trieste, he honed his craft under the tutelage of luminaries like Jean Claude Risset and Armin Kohlrausch, earning a master’s degree in Art Science Technologies and a Ph.D. from the Technische Universiteit Eindhoven. His quest for knowledge led him to the Institute of Sonology at the Royal Conservatory of Den Haag, where he delved into the realm of Electronic Music.
Beyond the stage, Novello’s creative footprint spans the globe. His productions, ranging from performances and talks to papers and compositions, have graced prestigious venues such as the Centre Pompidou in Paris, the Museo Reina Sofía in Madrid, and the Venice Biennale, to name but a few. With a discography boasting releases on esteemed labels like Staalplat and Creative Sources, Novello’s influence reverberates through the annals of contemporary art and music.
From the laboratories of Texas Instruments and Philips Research to the forefront of avant-garde expression, Novello’s journey embodies a fusion of intellect and imagination. As he continues to traverse the cultural landscape, bridging the realms of art and science, JesterN remains a beacon of innovation, inviting us to contemplate the boundless possibilities that lie at the intersection of analogue and digital realms.
During an interview conducted in Lafayette, Colorado, amidst the Leaf Festival where he was performing, Novello shared insights into his creative process and the inspirations driving his work. He revealed plans to host workshops at Boulder and Denver universities on Monday, April 22nd, at 5 pm, inviting enthusiasts and scholars alike to delve deeper into the fascinating intersection of art, science, and technology.
