Milledge, Russell, and Youdell, Rebecca (2013) Spectropica. [Creative Work]

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Abstract

Spectropica is a contemporary art event, an urban intervention incorporating thermal spectrum imaging data projection, and live performer/participant interaction. Operating as an intermedial performance presentation in exterior urban sites such as an exposed parking station surrounded by high-rise buildings or structures. The event experience can be conceptualised for what might be considered found spaces and places as site-specific interventions.

Iteration one: On Edge Media and Performance Festival, Cairns

Projected video sequences of non-sequitur tropical narratives shot with iPhones along with live interactive thermal spectrum imaging displayed on the huge wall surfaces provided by architectural firewalls and external walls of lift shafts as seen from alleyways and parking lots. One projection illuminated a multi-story elevator column with live interactive thermographic images over 20 metres high. The second overlaid the entire firewall of an adjacent multi-story property with high definition video sequences shot using iPhones.

Iteration two: Dance Science program CSIRO Discovery Centre, Canberra

Combining the orientation of audiences in relation to built structures invoked the design comprising of multiple supersized projections and a sonic zone for live dance / sound performance. Set in a public thoroughfare between neighboring buildings provided spatial relationships and conversations between projection and performance. Thermal imaging and depth sensors were channeled through the digital imaging software and programming to be projected live in relationship to the pre-eminent presence of the dancer.

Research Statement

Research Background	Blast theory uses urban environmental spaces as the backdrop for performative experiences, shifting expectations of public art and raising a greater appreciation of ephemeral public art (Benford and Giannachi 2011). This work sought to extend site-specific and ephemeral considerations developed through scenographic spatial practices (Hill and Paris 2006). It considered how projection mapping might bring a specific focus to the re-situating of live human movement and musical performance into urban architectural spaces as public art.
Research Contribution	Strategies of quick deployment, which integrated technology and performer, were continually deployed in this work, in response to the demands of the artwork sites. Using a far infrared camera, the heat signature of a performer was projected on the surface of a building in real time. Repurposed military grade gateway surveillance technology, in combination with media art projections, were mapped to the side of a high-rise building. Transduced frequencies from live musical performance also enabled a generative form of visual expression. Audiences were thus permitted to participate in the work through the interactive and intermedial combination of digital media and live performance.
Research Significance	This work extends extant understandings and practices regarding the possibilities of generative art and the activation of public spaces during live performances. It has been commissioned by the On Edge Media and Performance Festival at the Cairns Centre of Contemporary Arts, 2012. The project was also featured in the 2013 Dance Science (DANscienCE Festival) program funded by the CSIRO Discovery Centre, Canberra. Its innovation has led to continuing commissions from Cairns Regional Council for a variety of festival and community events, including the Cairns Festival 2015-17.
Item ID:	31313
Item Type:	Creative Work
Media of Output:	multimedia
Event Details:	DANscienCE Festival CSIRO Discovery Centre, Canberra, ACT, Australia 14-15 August 2013
Related URLs:	http://www.bonemap.com http://www.csiro.au/Portals/Education/Pr... https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pl... http://www.onedgeart.com/festival-progra... http://www.bonemap.com/bonemap_2012/spec...
Date Deposited:	02 Dec 2014 04:15
FoR Codes:	19 STUDIES IN CREATIVE ARTS AND WRITING > 1902 Film, Television and Digital Media > 190299 Film, Television and Digital Media not elsewhere classified @ 100%
SEO Codes:	95 CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING > 9501 Arts and Leisure > 950104 The Creative Arts (incl. Graphics and Craft) @ 100%
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