The project Outward Threads is an artistic investigation rooted in music composition, integrating computational frameworks from machine learning and artificial intelligence to create new music. It seeks to develop a fresh approach to established compositional methodologies within computer-assisted composition, as well as incorporating novel tools. Some of these contributions, including the development of creative software tools, are discussed. Theoretically, the project examines various forms of creative cognition and their manifestation in Western art contemporary music composition, drawing insights from cognitive sciences and AI. These discussions provide a framework for presenting each composition within the project and serve as starting points for exploring individual creative methodologies, and techniques. The goal is to deepen the understanding of these cognitive processes and their interactions in the creative process, aiming to bridge the gap between purely neurocognitive approaches and practice-based research. In a broader context, the project examines ethical aspects of music and composition and the composer’s role in society. Finally, it considers the impact of new technologies –particularly generative AI– on creative processes and discusses influential practitioners and current trends in the field.
Reflection and and documentation of artistic result submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Philosophiae Doctor (Ph.D.) in Artistic Research at the University of Bergen. Date of public defence: September 11th, 2025.
Supervision: Dániel Péter Biró; Co-supervision: Örjan Sandred