Sensual(ising) mediated space
Client // New Forms Festival
Roles // Concept & Co-design
Submission for an installation inside a New Meda Festival framework
Vancouver, CA // 2004
 
 
 
  • Conceptual Illustration using the Scotia Bank foyer as the potential site.  
 

NEW FORMS FESTIVAL- Conceptual Framework

Title: Sensual(ising) mediated space
Category: Installation / Exhibition

Précis
Architecturalizing the theme technography we propose a hybridized interactive environment that mediates our understandings of space as a changeable phenomenon on all sensory levels; from our own cultural interpretations to those that the technology of architecture dictates.

This hybridized architectural installation will consist of:
1: An Interactive architecture- built from enhancing material structures with projected light, computer visuals and sound.
2: A presentation screen- for displaying festival content in a spatially dynamic format.


Concept
Exploring the theme in architectural space, we will examine a direct relationship of culture (inhabitant) and technology (architecture) in phenomenological terms. We want to create a personal interpretation of technography through a dynamic and evolving ensemble of temporary structure, projected animation, light and sound. Space(s) that will immerse and engage dialogue with festival participants and the public at large, giving a fleeting image of what this theme could embody and where new forms of architecture can be found.
Within this construction, we aim to introduce a presentation format for cultural production from within the festival. We believe this apparatus could help entice public interest in the festival themes and broadcast its combined interests on a grander scale.


Process
We have illustrated an initial glimpse of our design process using the Scotia Bank Dance Centre foyer [see scotia_concept.jpg] because it contains site specific elements that we desire to work with; explicitly architectural features such as a public (transparent) entrance way, connection to a performance space, interesting spatial volume, a stairwell and doors. We are however, comfortable in remaining ‘site-less’ until we have discussed the framework potential with you. In terms of site requests, our main preference is a degree of interior / exterior transparency (preferably an opening glass façade) from which to work up a blurring of spatial boundaries and public broadcast potential.

Construction
Combining the distinctly different design mediums of architecture and motion graphics, we will develop an overlapping field of virtual and physical space. We desire to create a layering of spatial transparencies, through building dynamic structures with projected animated textures and 3-D forms that work to shift an inert perception of space. In combination with this, we intend to introduce interactive sound and light as another layer of spatial generators, building an immersive sensory understanding for occupants inhabiting this environment. Evolving over time, this multimedia exploration will work to engage a more intimate experience somewhere in between interior and exterior, public life and performance, virtual reality and lived experience.

To add to our skill base we are currently working in collaboration with:
>Quadra - Vancouver musicians, to build the aural environment.
>Dylan Tisdall - a real time robotic programmer, to assist in laser manipulation.