IMPACT Conference 2017

INVASION is an interactive installation where the movements of those entering the space represent visual content that is sampled, manipulated in real time, and projected on to a series of layered screens. It proposes an alternate approach to dance-making, presentation, and production in response to several emerging trends: hybrid art forms, the infiltration of live performance into contemporary art museums, interactivity, and the rise of the “selfie” culture. When entering the installation, participants are asked to stand in front of a Kinect camera that creates 3-D scans of their movement. These scans are then inputted into Z-Vector, a new sound reactive visualization tool using camera-based depth sensors. The technology allows “invaders” to become both the performers and interpreters of the installation’s content. They experience an endless feedback loop where they witness their moving bodies, respond (or not) to the projected images, and thereby generate further content for their experience. INVASION challenges pre-conceived notions of dance, thrusting those who do not even consider themselves dancers into corporeal exploration. The installation is visual, performative, and responsive, creating a rich experience where “invaders” move, play, and live inside a real-time, artistic process. This movement session will explore the educational applications of an interactive installation, whereby students can become “invaders”. Participants will learn how they can create a simple, low-cost version of the installation structure that allows students to explore improvisational and choreographic possibilities in terms of content, sequencing, repetition, and development. They will then have an opportunity to experience both improvising in front of the Kinect camera as well as sampling and manipulating movement material using Z Vector.