
This research note introduces a conceptual and computational framework for the sonification of prehistoric geoglyphs, with a focus on the Nazca Lines (Peru). The core contribution is a pipeline that converts geometric and symmetry properties of geoglyph contour data—extracted via GIS—into structured rhythmic sound parameters. Drawing on Lynch's concept of the imageability of urban paths as a model for perceptual movement through form, I propose that a geoglyph can be understood as a spatial score: its geometry encodes pacing, intensity, and bilateral structure that map systematically onto rhythm, instrumentation, and stereo positioning. A bilateral symmetry algorithm (PCA/SVD on point clouds, outputting R, E50, S, and per-point L/R side) provides the quantitative basis for this translation. This note describes the conceptual framework, the translation table from geometric condition to rhythmic pattern, the computational pipeline (QGIS → Python → MIDI/OSC → SuperCollider), and open questions for future experimental work.
sonification, geoglyphs, Nazca Lines, archaeoacoustics, bilateral symmetry, spatial score, algorithmic composition, GIS, rhythm, stereo panning
sonification, geoglyphs, Nazca Lines, archaeoacoustics, bilateral symmetry, spatial score, algorithmic composition, GIS, rhythm, stereo panning
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