Cory Cullinan’s “Footprint” is a dynamic and multifaceted artistic experience that bridges decades of creative ambition. Conceived during Cory’s undergraduate years at Stanford under the tutelage of John Chowning, the legendary inventor of FM synthesis, “Footprint” is both a tribute to his mentor and a bold exploration of audience perception and interpretation.
From its inception in the late 1980s, “Footprint” was envisioned as an ambitious project but was left unfinished due to the technological limitations of the time. Fast forward to 2024, and Cory, now an accomplished composer, revisited and realized this vision, enlisting the help of his former student and current studio manager, Elizabeth Anaya.
The result is a piece that is open to interpretation. Premiering to an audience of Stanford Recording Arts students, the piece elicited three distinct interpretations, each deeply specific and personal. This range of responses exemplifies Cory’s goal: to create an experience that invites listeners to engage emotionally and intellectually, shaped by their own perspectives.
The multimedia adaptation, developed in collaboration with his daughter, Sidney Cullinan, elevates “Footprint” evenfurther. Sidney’s expertise in environmental storytelling brings a visual dimension that complements the audio by creating a synergy between sound and image. Her background in environmental studies and communications adds layers of meaning and aligns the piece with contemporary concerns about humanity’s impact on the environment.
