Quasar

[size=40]Quasar
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http://www.quasarexhibition.com

Quasar is an immersive light and sound space made from prototype membranes and realized as an interactive light/sound object and comprised of a dense array of interlinked elements describing an intricate three-dimensional structure. The gallery is fitted with sensors that draw real-time data from the installation and the people within the exhibition, which is then synchronized with streamed real-time data of solar activity and nuclear processes provided by SLAC and NASA. This information is then fed back into the object through layers of LED strands, re-visualizing the space in order to create an interactive spatial experience.

Jean-Michel Crettaz
Aaron Bocanegra, MarkDavid Hosale, Duly Lee
Opening Reception Jan. 25th 7-9pm
Exhibition Discussion Feb. 15th 7-9pm

Southern California Institute of Architecture
960 East 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013
directions: http://www.sciarc.edu/portal/about/directions.html

Comments

, Erika Lincoln

I had a look at the images from the website, the piece is a beaut, I am enticed and seduced.
Although my question is does it even need to be responding to the views in the gallery? The fact that it is making visual and auditorial patterns from solar activity and nuclear processes I think is enough. and yes I know i have not experienced the piece only the images from the website, and it would be different in person. but maybe, just maybe the data from the viewers is a layer that is not needed. just a thought
I still really like the piece.

, MarkDavid Hosale

To make the work as suggested, viewing only, would create a disconnect between the observer and the work. In this case Quasar would simply be a visualization of solar and nuclear data. The interactive aspect of Quasar provides the viewer with a medium whereby they can collaboratively interact with these otherwise unseen processes. Just as with the Heisenberg uncertainty principle it is not possible to observe Quasar without changing it. This connection therefore expresses something our deep connection to the universe. The universe is not an alien object to be observed, but is part of us as much as we are part of it.

, Erika Lincoln

Thanks for the explanation MarkDavid, I understand what your goal is now. I sure would like to see/experience the piece in person. What happens exactly when the viewers interact, how do they change or alter the work. It is not clear in the description of the piece.

, MarkDavid Hosale

The content of Quasar is an stratified system of processes, ranging from low to high intensity, augmented by data collected from our universe expressed as light and sound. Users can interact with the work actively and passively in the form of interruptions that change the behavior of the processes. Actively they can trace gestures on the Quasar via a touchpanel interface, altering the light patterns that occur across it. Passively a user's presence alters the intensity mode, which affects the nature of the currently occurring light and sound patterns. Presence is detected via distance sensors in the individual electro-luminescent wires running from floor to ceiling. To see more, here is a video:
http://vimeo.com/675887