Aurora Engine
Duration
Aurora Engine (Deborah Shaw) is a composer, harpist, and pianist based in Edinburgh, crafting immersive sound worlds that blend electronics, live instruments, and found sounds. Inspired by the natural world, birdsong, tides, and human voices, she tells stories through sound shaping textures that explore tension and unpredictability. Her debut album, Secret Knock (2024) brought sound worlds and storytelling and her and foley- and nature-inspired works have been showcased at Made in Scotland 2023.
Recent performances include Celtic Connections, Hidden Door Festival and she will tour new post-industrial and railway inspired sound work in Spring 2026.
Cryptic’s Artist Residency Programme, delivered in partnership with Cove Park, offers musicians and digital artists dedicated time, space and professional support to focus on creative research and experimentation. The residency prioritises artistic development over final outcomes, enabling artists to take creative risks, explore new directions and deepen their practice. Alongside independent research and development, participants engage with peers, exchange ideas and benefit from shared learning in a supportive, collaborative environment. This opportunity is vital for both artists and Cryptic, playing a key role in nurturing the next generation of creative talent.
Since 2012, Cryptic has curated this annual residency at Cove Park, supporting the development of over 90 UK and international artists working across music, sound and multimedia practice.
In 2026, this programme is supported by Creative Scotland, Creative Compass Georgia, PRS Foundation, British Council’s Connections Through Culture Grants, the Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation, Arts Council Malta and In Fine with support of the City of Geneva.
