constrained objects for
performance present unique
challenges, but also force
the performer to dig deeper
and form a more intimate
relationship with their
instrument. Knowing (and
sometimes being surprised
by!) the affordances of
physical materials and
the effects of pushing
computational controls to
their limits creates a unique
space for exploration and
expression.
→ Visual output of the Distaff instrument.
DOI: 10.1145/3280960 COP YRIGH T HELD BY AUTHOR
What was the biggest
surprise in making this?
Certain compelling
phenomena emerged
unpredictably through
exploration: By spinning
the platter faster than the
camera’s and software’s
frame rates, the lights will
appear to move slower,
reverse direction, or even
stand still. Exploiting
how quickly the video
feed can be sent from the
computer to the projector
also produces interesting
output. If the computer
cannot run quickly
enough, instead of smooth
scrolling motions a very
aggressive strobing effect
is produced.
Did anything go wrong?
There is a ceiling to how
quickly video can be
captured, processed, and
rendered by hardware and
software, but in this case
pushing those limits became
surprisingly compelling. It
can be tempting to design
things that are safe and
stable, but pushing systems
and materials beyond
their limits can produce
worthwhile experiences; the
“bugs” became rich spaces
for expression.
Anna Weisling, Georgia
Institute of Technoloigy
→ aweisling3@gatech.edu
http://aweisling.com/beacon
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