Friday, August 2, 2013

Make An Interactive Digital Installation

Interactive digital art installations are a unique way to combine creativity with technology and engage the viewer in a unique and interesting way. Instead of leaving the viewer to their imagine to interpret the art, artists creating digital installations can help influence and shape the way that their art installation is perceived by the viewer. These kinds of installations can also leave a lasting effect on the viewer and help set your art project apart from the others.


Instructions


1. Use a haptic-feedback touch device such as a small touch screen or table to develop an interactive layer where viewers can create and modify images that are displayed on the screen. If you're technically-minded, create your own program that interacts with the hardware of the touch screen or pick up a readymade touchscreen tablet device that includes the hardware required to interact with hands and styluses that are touching the surface of the device.


2. Wire in an audio visualizer to your installation where you can visualize any audio being generated or played during the installation on an external screen. Many computers include visualization software that can be sent to output display devices such as projectors and external screens, both of which can be integrated into the art installation as digital pieces. Use these visualizations to change the lighting in the installation's environment, giving it a new feel.


3. Use 3D modeling software to generate models of images, characters, symbols and subjects that you might create using more traditional hands-on art mediums. The advantage of using 3D modeling software is that the models can be manipulated using other kinds of software to create unique animations. Take the animations a step further and create custom software that allows participants in the art installation to control the 3D models and effectively interact with the art that's in front of them.