1. “WikiGalaxy” by Own Cornec
WikiGalaxy is 3D visualisation of wikipedia articles. What I like the most about this project is that the metaphor of galaxy that has been used. Wikipedia articles are related to each other. When I read about something I don’t know the definition of that word always has two,three words I go back and find again on wiki. I feel the connected-ness of the wiki articles are depicted beautifully by the artist. Also, wikipedia is like a galaxy of articles that is interconnected which forms a universe of its own. I find the visualisation pretty neat, especially the fly through animations and the features of UI- map and ability to turn off the UI and exploring random articles in wikiGalaxy. I also believe that there is scope of adding more features in UI and structuring the information in a better way when someone clicks on a star in galaxy (article in wikipedia). Currently, the data appears scattered on screen and is not readable. As a user, I enjoyed the interaction with UI but could’t read well on the website, which seems to be the prime focus of the project.
more- http://wiki.polyfra.me/
2. “Handheld” by Pors and Rao
Handheld is an interactive art piece. It simulates the motion of a small person holding a big piece of paper in both hands and trying to balance it. What I found most impressive about this project is simplicity. There are not too many elements involved in the design to create an effective experience . Also, the motion of balancing the piece of paper seems real. Hands at the edges facing outwards create an image of a person hidden behind the paper facing towards the paper. What’s missing or what can be added in this project at the cost of adding a little complexity is real time interaction with audience. If the motion of hand reacts to voice of a person, distance or ambient noise in the room, richer and engaging interactions can be created. If the artpiece is made into a painting and is made to tilt towards left when viewer says “left” (as if trying to get the orientation of painting right on the wall) and so on, I believe it will be more fun.