MIDI Hat, 2011
Collaboration with Anna ObikanePhotography by Dan Meyers
We wanted to make a sound interface to explore new ways of interaction. Our goal for this project was to develop a simple. fun, and user-friendly object so anyone can feel comfortable participating. We chose the hat since hats are user-friendly, easy to wear, and ordinary. The lit LEDs signify to the other user that the hat is ready to communicate and emit sound. The pressure sensors send signals to manipulate sounds playing from the computer. Each hat is equipped with different MIDI signals so that the hat users need to collaborate to make a musical composition together.
Arduino Lilypad, felted hat, felted soft sensors and wires, white and tricolor LEDs Program: MAX/MSP
Urban Aliens, 2010
Collaboration with Anna ObikanePhotography by Dan Meyers
Coming from different cultural backgrounds, we migrate to a space where we can fit in instead of feeling unaccepted. The project portrays alienation in an urban environment by creating our own space where we can feel a sense of belonging. When the aliens are isolated in the city, they emit negative noisy sounds because they are unhappy. When the aliens recognize each other and come closer, the sounds become more peaceful and constant. When the orbs combine, it creates an intimate space where the aliens can communicate and feel comfortable. Inside the orb there are various soft switches that play soundtracks that only the Urban Aliens could understand.
Arduino Waveshield, Lilypad, Rangefinder, LEDs