(opens in new tab)<\/span><\/a>, that explores the dynamic tension between an object and its shadow. By fusing light, projection, and motion technologies, the shadow can now detach itself from its former role. This creates a new narrative that challenges our perception of reality, what\u2019s real and what\u2019s not.<\/p>The entire installation was set up in a cubic structure of 8 feet x 8 feet x 8 feet. Three entities (a white ball, a light bulb, and a shadow) are presented to the viewers. Using Kinect and Pointgrey cameras, we track the viewers\u2019 activities as well as the position of the ball and the light bulb. The shadow\u2019s size\/position is computed based on tracked positions of the ball and the light bulb; therefore, moving either of them will change the size and position of the shadow. An Optoma projector is used to create lighting and shadow effects.<\/p>
The proposed setup allows direct manipulation of the light bulb. It is notable that, as the light bulb starts to swing like a pendulum, the computer-generated shadow becomes much more realistic because our mind automatically picks up the synchronized motions of the light bulb and the shadow. This, combined with the viewers\u2019 presences and body postures, allows the interaction between the viewers and the ball with its shadow to become more playful and perceptively appealing.<\/p>
Through five unique vignettes \u2013 Disappearing, Showing Fear, Changing Shape, Dream of Flying, and Possessing the Ball<\/em>, we demonstrate interactions that involve varying degree of whimsical behavior, tweaking of the shadow\u2019s shape, and viewers\u2019 engagement into the narrative.\t<\/div>\n\t<\/p>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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