Context

Our ideas were mainly informed by the readings from this module (“Performing Interactivity” and "The Methodology of Generative Art"). The concept of using the human body to drive an emergent audiovisual experience comes mostly from the reading on generative art. Specifically, we used the "aleatoric" process of creating generative art in our computer program. While there is a set structure or algorithm to the image/sound generation, it relies quite heavily on randomness. So, things like the sizes, initial locations, and pitches associated the spheres are decided randomly; however, their color and pitch ranges, as well as their motion, are set based on which player is doing the clicking.

We decided to use human blinking in order to have an element of audience interaction and participation, which we feel is quite important for media performances. This idea comes from "Performing Interactivity;" we wanted to incorporate some of the different categories of interaction into our performance. By blinking (clicking the mouse), people have the chance to become co-creators for the artwork. At the same time, by observing each others' blinks, they can have a conversation that is digitally mediated through the use of the webcam.  

The intended message and purpose of the piece are varied.  The initial intent was to create a piece to turn the unconscious act of blinking into something conscious.  The next was to add a level of intimacy to blinking and staring, specifically between the two participants in the performance.  Finally, we wished to instill a sense of zen and relaxation through the visualization, as well as to make the eyeblinks visual and permanent through the creation of a sphere.