Amina Abbas-Nazari
Speculative Voicing
Summary
Speculative Voicing: Polyphonic Embodiment(s) and Voice Profiling in Conversational AI Systems
Amins's PhD research investigates the sound and sounding of voices in conversational artificially intelligent (AI) systems, such as human voice interaction with an Amazon Echo device, voiced by Alexa. Currently human and synthesised voices in conversational AI systems are understood through practices of profiling - a mode of working and understanding that further perpetuates harm to already marginalised people. Using a methodology highlighting the sonic materiality of human and synthesised voices she critiques practices of profiling while demonstrating alternative possibilities. The research is orientated from her position as a practising speculative designer and vocal performer, while tracking the motivations of a lineage of female experimental vocalists. The practice-led research stipulates that the voice taken as a material and sonic phenomenon within conversational AI systems can facilitate new forms of meaning making. By working with the voice as a design material, but treating it as though an experimental singer would, possibilities emerge to experiment with vocal potential, building dynamic relations with other matter and exploring concepts of being and identity from an ecological and social standpoint.
Speculative Voicing, developed as part of this practice-led work, is an intersectional, new materialist-based methodology of and within speculative design, supported by theory of sonic thinking. This methodology aims to develop and deepen the field of Speculative Design, especially to grapple with some of its contemporary criticism, and evolve a sonic speculative design approach.
Additional info
Amina Abbas-Nazari is a practicing speculative designer, researcher, and vocal performer.
Amina has researched the voice in conjunction with emerging technology, through practice, since 2008 and is now completing a PhD in the School of Communication at the Royal College of Art, focusing on the sound and sounding of voices in artificially intelligent conversational systems.
Alongside Amina’s research and practice she teaches design at Goldsmiths, University of London, and RCA, where she previously worked as a Research Fellow on the My Naturewatch project. She has presented her work at the London Design Festival, Lisson Gallery, Design Museum, Barbican Centre, V&A Museum, Milan Furniture Fair, Venice Architecture Biennial, Critical Media Lab, Switzerland, Litost Gallery, Prague and Harvard University, America. She has performed internationally with choirs and regularly collaborates with artists as an experimental vocalist.
