Thundervolt, performance/installation, 1994

Thundervolt, performed at the Deep Creek School, Telluride, CO in 1994, involved a connection between the electrical system of the body and the electrical system of the earth. Real-time data on lightning strikes around the US were relayed to a computer via the National Lightning Detection Network. As the lightning strikes registered on the computer, muscles n the body were involuntarily stimulated via a series of TENS (Transcontaneous Electro Neuro Stimulators). In the background, audio stories from students about body and lighting experiences filled the room as the gentle sound of rain fell on the tin roof above.

For more information contact Gene Cooper at gene@fourchambers.org

More about the NLDN and technology:
The "Thunder" Realtime lightning detection system from the National Lightning Detection Network now operated by Global Atmospherics. http://www.glatmos.com/products/data/thunder.html

Image of body with TENS electodes placed on various areas of the body.

Overall image of suspended body with lightning strike display in background.

Overall image of suspended body with lightning strike display in background.

Closeup of lightning strike display.