Michelle-LookingOutwards-1
Fluid Vase
In his generative art piece, Fluid Vase,, Fung Kwok Pan allows consumers to interact with a design interface to 3D Print a vase based on simulations of moving fluid. I love how each consumer can order an entirely different vase because they can select any frame they prefer. In addition, it elegantly captures movement in a stationary object. The possibilities of this concept could be pushed even further by capturing the complex movement of fabrics or sand, and be expanded into other enterprises besides vases. Pan definitely got the appeal of his product down because he has turned “action”–an abstract, indistinct concept–into a physical object. According to Kwok Pan, he was inspired greatly by the advantages of 3D Printing. I profoundly admire this about his project because he took the potential of this technology up a notch. Also, as I was investigating Kwok Pan’s previous projects, I realized this designer has very diverse types of interactive art. He has reaches in apps, installations, and product design, and I could not see a recurring theme in his projects. However, he has a distinct style that exudes confidence and a dynamic taste.
Pixelate
The most interesting interactive piece I stumbled upon was by Sures Kumar and Lana Z Porter. They created a Guitar Hero-inspired game called Pixelate, where two people must eat as much food as they can in the correct order within a minute. The correct foods are distinguished through sensors on the forks. I like how the piece takes a creative interactive approach through food. I don’t see that often. I also think the project has a great potential for nutrition education, as that was what originally compelled the artists to make this game. Unfortunately, I think the nature of food is what gets in the way of the installation as well. The installation would require a constant restocking of food. Also, I don’t think it’s too healthy to stand while eating or swallow without chewing. Compared to Kumar’s previous projects, he has definitely maintained his sleek designs and user-friendly interfaces. I think Pixelate, in particular, is most successful in influencing the realm of interactive art.
The Pool
In her installation, Pool, Jen Lewin compels groups of people to play around her arrangement of concentric circles that light up and interact with each step. The piece is inspiring for it becomes more vibrant as more people join in, reflecting how childish playfulness is fun with more people. Investigating further, I found the artist chose the design of concentric circles to reflect how people listen and interact with each other. The circular pads used for the piece, however, look like eyeballs or sunnyside up eggs. I think the artist had the right idea by asking viewers to interact in larger groups, but I think the design could be a little more elegant. Compared to her past installations, I believe the Pool is the most successful in integrating light and interaction. Her other pieces, such as The Paint Torch, are on a smaller scale and don’t require as much active involvement from the viewers. Overall I felt that if her installations were on a much grander scale and had more surprising elements, they would leave a stronger impression.