Hi, I am Paul Stillwell.  Based in Toronto, I am a musician, photographer, and the host/curator/founder of Frequency Freaks – Toronto’s only monthly workshop on synthesizers, synthesis, and live performance of electronic music. I am enamoured with all aspects of electronic music. Especially the darker, more moody side.

Musically, I perform individually, as a duo, and as part of a larger ensemble. My music is always largely based on improvisation. I like to leave room for direction that is driven by emotion and experimentation. I gravitate toward more esoteric instruments like modular synthesizers and those from Ciat-Lonbarde and Soma. I still love a good keyboard synth though!

As a photographer specializing in capturing the timeless beauty of nature, I strive to create evocative images that resonate with viewers on an emotional level. My work is rooted in both film and digital photography, allowing me to experiment with light and shadows, texture and contrast, and composition to bring out the nuances of my subjects.

My portfolio showcases a range of subjects, from landscapes and seascapes to portraits and still life. Each image is carefully composed and meticulously developed in the darkroom for film photography or processed with care using digital editing techniques. The use of both mediums enables me to capture scenes with an analogue or digital aesthetic, offering viewers a unique perspective on the beauty of nature and the human condition.

I have a particular focus on and a deep love for black and white photography. The monochromatic palette allows me to highlight textures, shapes, and contrasts in my images while also imbuing them with an element of timelessness.

In addition to this, I take pride in carrying the analogue process through to the darkroom, creating both silver gelatin and kallitype prints. This attention to detail allows me to imbue my photographs with a timeless quality that is both nostalgic and enduring. My goal is to create images that transcend these mediums, offering viewers a glimpse into the beauty of nature and the human condition through the lens of my camera, while also providing them with the opportunity to experience my work in its purest form – a physical print.

Not Your Average Worker Bees is a duo formed in 2016 with David Sutherland. The music can be described as Dark Ambient with elements of Berlin School mixed in. I would hate to limit it to that though as we inject a fair share of experimentation but can also get close to the point of something you can dance to sometimes!

I am a longtime member of the Canadian Electronic Ensemble. Some of the most rewarding and exciting music I have participated in has been created with this band! You can see some videos and our web site at the link below.

Frequency Freaks workshops encourage collaboration as well as live performances between synthesists and performers of all levels from beginner to professional as well, as instrument designers and builders. You never know who you’re going to meet at a workshop!

Of course, if you’d like to reach out to me directly, you can use the Contact form under the FAQ menu