Meet Autumn Weinmann

Today we’d like to introduce you to Autumn Weinmann.

Hi Autumn, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today. 
When my partner and I met, we bonded over our love for the psychedelic scene of the 60s and 70s. We would listen to vinyl and talk about the music, art, culture, and ideals that wove that community together. He as a musician was inspired by the experimental sounds, and I as an artist was drawn to the incorporation of live visuals they created at shows. We dreamed of cultivating a similar scene here in Phoenix, a safe space for artists and like-minded people to connect, collaborate, and have memorable experiences. I studied the styles and techniques of the liquid light show artists from that era, mesmerized by what they could achieve with so little technology. One day, I saw an old-school overhead projector for sale and brought it home. I started out with what little I had: pie dishes and various cooking oils and dyes. I fell in love with the medium instantly and continued to practice at home until a good friend asked me to do a live show. Since then, my techniques and gear have continuously evolved into what you see today. I owe so much to the other visual artists who helped me level up in various ways, especially Liquid Light Lab and Purdy Lites. I am also indebted to friends in bands like Sativan, Realm, Pijama Piyama, Emby Alexander, and many more who have generously and perpetually allowed me to blast them with light and color while they’re on stage – in the name of rock n’ roll. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way? I would say the biggest struggle I continue to encounter is the need for improvisation in setting up. Sometimes, you have to mount a projector on a ladder to get the right angle, climb a stage truss to hang a backdrop, or set up your gear in a compromising spot, for example. When performing at a venue, you never really know what to expect. Sometimes, they are very accommodating and allow you to do whatever is necessary to make the visuals work. Other times, they are more strict, and I have to ditch certain aspects of my craft in order to make it work. For that reason, I really enjoy the underground shows where we create our own space, and I have the freedom to make the most of my “canvas.” But considering that is my biggest challenge, I’d call it a pretty smooth road so far. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a live visual artist specializing in liquid light shows. I have expanded into other aspects, such as glitch, feedback, and live video, but liquid light is my forte. I am most proud of the techniques I’ve mastered in that particular art form, as it allows me to pay homage to the artists who pioneered it in the psychedelic 60s. Every set I do is live, improvised, and synchronized with the music that the bands so beautifully perform at these shows. I think that cohesive collaboration between the bands and the visuals is what makes it a unique experience. 

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about Phoenix is the beautiful melting pot of artists and the scene we have created together. The bands who put on spectacular performances, the DJs that provide soundscapes for dancing and socializing, the artists who bare their souls in physical pieces so that others can connect and relate, and the photographers who capture it all as history in the making. There are so many moving pieces that make this thing work, and everybody pitches in to do their part. To me, that is what makes Phoenix feel like home. It’s difficult to find something I dislike about Phoenix, but there is some room for improvement in the music scene. Working with so many talented bands and musicians has left me in awe of their talent time and time again. I only wish there was more pride and support for these local musicians, more people coming out to the shows, and better representation of them at local venues. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.lights.witch
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553353898757&mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@the.lights.witch.visuals?si=eBB3fwBKooECeMbK

Image Credits
Chel Hicks
Jarrett Bennett