Artist of the Month: November 2024
Photo Credits: Sadaf Azadehfar
Computer Musician, Sound Artist, Interdisciplinary Artist
Based in Calgary, Alberta
Hesam Ohadi is an Iranian Canadian interdisciplinary artist and sound creator based in Alberta, Calgary, whose practice spans electronic music and new media art. Under the alias Idlefon, they create visceral ambient soundscapes, merging elements of IDM, glitch, and processed vocals. Their work draws from the contrasting environments of Tehran’s urban intensity and Alberta’s serene natural landscapes. Hesam has released music through the Oakland-based experimental label n5MD and performs with the Calgary-based bands Hailstones (dream pop/shoegaze) and HERR SPECTRE (cold wave). They also co-founded the experimental label BITROT and the music festival SET.
Under the alias Kino, Hesam explores algorithm-driven new media art, working across performance, kinetic sculpture, interactive installations, and net art. Their works often utilize custom software and creative coding, inspired by nature and digital processes. They are a co-founder and technical director of Tehran’s CODON Interactive Media, a collective experimenting in interaction design and computer arts.
Photo Credits: Malthe Ivarsson & Jillian Dyrnaes
Your work spans across different mediums—music as Idlefon and new media art as Kino. How do you balance these two creative outlets, and what themes or concepts are central to each? Why are these themes important to you?
For me, Idlefon and Kino represent two distinct parts of my creative identity. Idlefon, my music project, is deeply personal and introspective. It’s an outlet for my most profound emotions—fear, sadness, and joy. The music often has a dark tone and reflects my inner emotional world. Over the years, my sound has evolved to include textured ambient soundscapes combined with IDM and glitch elements, all designed to create an immersive emotional experience. Each track is like a chapter in my emotional journey.
In contrast, Kino is where I engage with broader societal and political issues. I use technology and generative art to explore themes like media manipulation, censorship, and global concerns. One of the main ideas I explore through Kino is how the media shapes public perception. For instance, in my installation REDACTED, I examined how mainstream media controls narratives and manufactures consent. These themes are crucial because I believe art can challenge these systems and encourage people to think critically about the world. While Idlefon is emotionally driven and personal, Kino allows me to address larger societal issues through abstract, generative art. Both outlets are essential to my artistic expression.
Photo Credits: Malthe Ivarsson
You’ve been experimenting with new technologies in your art, such as the AxiDraw drawing robot. Can you tell us more about that project and what drew you to it?
AxiDraw is a fascinating tool. It’s a drawing robot that can bring my generative art to life. I’ve always been interested in using algorithms and computer programming in my work, and AxiDraw allows me to translate those digital designs into physical drawings. I was fortunate to receive a microgrant from Calgary Arts Development to purchase the machine, and it’s been exciting to explore how technology can merge with art to create something new.
Your creative process seems to be very multifaceted. How do you approach creating music versus creating visual art?
The process is quite different for each. For my music as Idlefon, it’s very intuitive. Sometimes it feels like the music just pours out of me, especially when I’m surrounded by my gear. Lately, since I’ve started incorporating vocals into my music, even lyrics come to me at random moments, like when I’m walking down the street.
For my visual art as Kino, it’s much more concept-driven. I usually start with an idea or a political theme and then figure out the best medium to express it, whether it’s generative design, an installation, or something else. I love working with technology, coding, and creative software to bring my ideas to life.
Photo Credits: Jillian Dyrnaes
What role does mentorship play in your career, and do you see yourself mentoring others in the future? As an immigrant artist in Alberta, what advice would you give to newcomers trying to break into the local arts scene?
Mentorship has been invaluable to me, especially when I was starting out. Learning from others, even just through observation, has been key to my growth. In the future, I’d love to give back by mentoring younger artists and helping them navigate the challenges of both the music and art industries.
As an immigrant artist in Alberta, I understand the challenges of breaking into a new arts community.
My advice to newcomers is to actively seek out connections—attend events, introduce yourself, and build relationships. It can be tough at first, but consistency and effort are key. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t happen immediately. Take time to find where you fit, whether in music, visual art, or other scenes. Alberta’s arts community is welcoming, but integration requires effort.
Photo Credits: Malthe Ivarsson