Heather Matangi Contant

Dr. Heather Matangi Contant is a researcher, artist, and scholar associated with the University of New South Wales Art & Design. Her work focuses on collectivist tendencies in media arts, radio history, and acoustic ecology, examining how collaborative practices shape media theory and technology.

Education:

• PhD in Art, Design and Media (2018), UNSW Art & Design
• MA in Media Studies (2013), The New School for Public Engagement
• BA in Liberal Arts (2007), Eugene Lang College, New School University

Research Interests: Dr. Contant's research investigates generative collectivism in media arts history, experimental sound practices, and interdisciplinary approaches to media theory. Her work bridges art history, media studies, and technological innovation through archival research and sonic experimentation.

Publications & Research Trends: Her scholarship spans radio history, sound art, and media collectivism, with a focus on historical analysis, cultural critique, and experimental methodologies. Key themes include conviviality in media, acoustic displacement, and interdisciplinary media theory.

Scientific Awards:

• Dean’s Award for Excellence in Higher Degree Research (2018)
• Distinguished Thesis Award (2012)
• Excellence in Aviary Mockumentary (2011)

Contact: Dr. Contant can be reached at h.contant@unsw.edu.au.