Meta on Meta: Reflecting on real-time art in a post-production of AI
by Andy Vogel
I interviewed Nick Malpezzi on my iPhone and then had an Adobe Podcast to generate an audiogram for it. I then used a combination of the Google tools below to create recaps. The versions still need fine tuning, for example, audio levels need to be mixed better. The ability to generate out mutliple forms of media is helpful with putting out multiple means of engagement or as the Univeral Design for Learning Principles refer to it, Multiple Means of Engagment.
Engagement | CAST UDL Guidelines
Here is the Audio Gram with their automated mic adjustments.
Then I had NotebookLM take the transcript and generate a MindMap to branch out the topics.
The following is a NotebookLM summary of the transcript from the Adobe Audiogram (I know… AI Inception). Let’s us know in the comments what version speaks to you.
Unplugging from Perfection: Nick Malpezzi on ‘Moments’ in Music, VR, and AI’s Creative Edge by Andy Vogel
Nick Malpezzi’s journey into music began early, picking up the guitar in fourth grade. Finding he did not enjoy performing, he shifted his focus to making music on the computer, arranging samples, which led him to Capital University for an audio engineering/music production program. This program was unique for its applied focus and integrated curriculum, allowing Nick to minor in digital design and explore video production, Photoshop, and After Effects. He values these diverse skills, noting their importance in higher-end spaces that often lack comprehensive, certificate-based learning.
Nick recently released an album called “Moments,” a project deeply rooted in the concept of being present. This album marked a significant departure from his previous work, which typically involved programming music on a computer. For “Moments,” Nick embraced live performance, playing keys and chord progressions and allowing himself to make mistakes. The music on the album was recorded quickly, often in about an hour during his lunch break, with no post-production—only mastering. This spontaneous approach was a deliberate choice to break free from the “infinite cycle” of constant tinkering and perfectionism often associated with computer-based music creation, providing a “reset” and a sense of liberation. You can find his music under the stage name Omer (o_m_e_r_).
ohmer_ – Moments – Live Ambient DJ set on Octatrack
A video of the live mixing.
His creative philosophy extends to video as well, inspired by a friend who records daily snapshots.
Nick collects small video clips over time, editing them together to capture specific “moments,” much like a visual diary. Andy Vogel, in turn, has collaborated with Nick, using his music to enhance video projects. For instance, Nick’s music, described as mysterious, dark, and bright, perfectly complemented a video shot in the brutalist Knowlton building. Another deeply personal project involved using Nick’s somber yet inspiring song “Thinking of You” for a cancer fundraising bike ride video, where Andy found a profound resonance with the music’s emotional depth.
Regarding emerging technologies, Nick and Andy collaborated on a VR meditation app for Ohio State University’s campus. The aim was to create a free, accessible meditation experience using serene, public “hidden gem” locations on campus. Crucially, while the project utilized virtual reality to create an immersive environment, they were very intentional about the role of AI. AI was exclusively used for scripting to help generate meditation dialogue, ensure tonal consistency across multiple videos, and streamline the writing process. Nick, acknowledging he is not a writer, found AI to be a “super helpful” tool in crafting the necessary language within the confines of a meditation experience.
Nick believes that while AI could potentially replicate his musical style if given the right inputs, the true essence of art lies in the process and the human element. He argues that an AI-generated “Moments” album wouldn’t be authentic because it would involve predictive analysis rather than the physical act of human creation. This perspective highlights his emphasis on the journey of creation rather than just the final product.
Looking ahead, Nick is exploring future projects, including creating an AV experience manipulated by a game controller, where users can real-time control audio and video elements, ideally accessible via a web browser. Andy is also busy with various projects, such as completing a 3D printed guitar, navigating a “clipless” bike pedal “fiasco”, and diligently working through nearly 400 research sources for his own studies, awaiting final IRB approval to begin interviewing students.
Now here is the transcript converted into a video presentation. The AI made a big mistake: it messed up Nicks stage name as “omer” not “ohmer_”. As you heard in the audiogram I even had Nick spell out his stage name. The mistake highlights the AI does not understand the content but rather is good at assembling words together.
Andy Vogel is an Instructional Design Specialist at The Ohio State University where he blends emerging tech with hands-on learning. His recent work includes VR collaborations projects that explore how immersive tools can enhance engineering education. Andy’s focus is on making complex concepts accessible—and fun—through creative design and strategic tech integration
