|
Interacting
Constructing
|
 |
In Search of Identity
Pasadena, CA - December, 2004
by Nikolai Cornell
Project Description:
"In Search of Identity" is an interactive exhibit that uses a human-scale display system to allow visitors to explore the photographic work of artist Tatiana Parcero on multiple levels of their own choosing. By developing a unique projection technique and by embedding a diverse range of sensors into the physical display, I created an innovative way for users to be incorporated into and interact with the artist's work. The exhibit also includes a dynamic spatial interface that allows the user to explore a timeline of the artist's personal and professional history. The exhibit contains two major sections: A narrative that allows you to investigate twelve pieces of the artist's work and a timeline that allows you to explore her professional and personal history. A user begins by reading a brief introduction to the project and is then guided into the narrative. At any point in time he or she can move directly to a different photograph by using the “sensepad” on the right. The user may also explore the artist's timeline by sliding their fingers along the left “sensepad.” To move through the narrative the user gently waves their hand in front of the screen at particular moments in time.
I completed "In Search of Identity" as part of my Graduate Media Design thesis project entitled "Life-Size" at Art Center College of Design. The master's thesis project gives students the ability to research, design and produce a project of their own choosing over the course of one year. My master's thesis "Life-Size" is a series of interactive media design installations that explore human-scale interaction, environmental interface and display systems. The research, experiments and projects that comprise "Life Size" embed media into environments, enhance interior spaces and facades by making them respond to the movements of people through the space. I focused on developing the unique language of "Life Size" in an attempt to integrate Architecture and Media Design through interactive installations that connect physical space with immersive virtual content by forming a dialogue between the two. A fundamental aspect of human-scale interfaces is that they abandon the use of a mouse in favor of a dynamic range of sensors that allow the human body to be directly used as an interactive input device.
Click here to view video footage of the exhibit from Nikolai's site. |
