Edinburgh Napier University

  Foley is a sound production technique where organicity and authenticity in sound creation are key to fostering creativity. Audio synthesis, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Interaction Design (IXD) have been explored by the community to investigate their efficiency and versatility. This paper explores audio synthesis's current and potential use in Foley art practice. We opened an online survey answered by 56 Foley artists with a median of 10 years of experience from different industries (video games, and the remaining in advertisement, animation, radio audiobooks, live sound, music, podcast, documentary, audio drama, theatre, opera, VR, and research). Results from a thematic analysis reported that artists desired controllers for synthesising Foley with a focus on organic control, performance, and innovative ideas. Dissuading factors included the essence of Foley, sound synthesis complexity, and real object authenticity. Some Foley artists saw sound synthesis as complementary. The strengths of sound synthesis tools included creativity, speed, cost-effectiveness, and customisability. Suggestions to improve tools encompassed increased interactivity, teamwork, and continued exploration. Participants had diverse views on a potential combined Foley and synthesis tool, emphasising physical modelling, interaction design, and preserving craftsmanship.