TODD WINKLER

The set, resembling an old bedroom, creates a feeling of intimacy and familiarity - a kind of memory space. Viewer's movements and actions are tracked throughout the room using light and pressure sensors attached to a computer (using the ICUBE System), controlling audio and video playback. There are light sensors on each drawer of a dresser and vanity, light sensors in the room, and pressures sensors on the bed, arm chair, and under two throw rugs. Many old objects (old photograph, maps, vintage clothing) are placed in the drawers and around the room illustrating aspects of the stories. Viewers reflect on their own lives and memories, stimulated by the stories, the physical sensations and smells of old objects and furniture, and the rich quality of the voices and images.

Each sensor plays video and audio files based on a theme, with accompanying objects placed in the drawers and around the room, representing the stories told. Each trigger can play six different video and audio clips, so that most repetition is avoided. The hard disks contain 45 minutes of high-quality video, and 25 minutes of additional sound files.

There are three video sources visible in the room: a large monitor disguised as an old television set sits on top of the dresser, a second large monitor hides behind a two-way vanity mirror, and a third source is projected so that it appears as the viewer stars out the bedroom window. The video processing may include the addition of sepia tones, noise, fades, and masking background areas to black. The window contains primarily flashback scenes of historical scenes. In the case of the vanity mirror, the black background becomes reflective, so that faces appear to be floating within the mirror image (and participants simultaneously see their own reflection).

Related paper: Audience Participation and Response in Movement-Sensing Installations

Supported by grants from the Rhode Island State Arts Council and Rhode Island 2000 Commission