processartifact

The media overlay: Creative Media integration into the built environment

Interactive Frog:

This first video example shows how form can be augmented with video projection… not only enhancing surface quality, but “revealing internal space and function”

It is easy to imagine a similar application to this example applied to industrial themes, for instance the sub- surface mechanical systems of a building (electrical, heating, plumbing and networking, etc)

Video mapping on custom screen:

This second video shows how minimal relief on a wall can be embellished by a projected media treatment that emulates depth (ie: dynamic lighting and shadow) while also showcasing narrative- form content.

Boundaries of the “the canvas” and “the frame’ in relation to the wall are playfully broken here.

Of additional note in this example is the effectiveness of video projection with relative high ambient room light (note the windows and daylight seen in the video)

Substation Transformation at Portland Winter Light Festival

On a larger scale and with considerably more dramatic effect than the previous examples, this again shows how projected media can augment the built environment. In taking direct inspiration or “cues” from the existing world, such as the natural effect of light, shadow etc, new forms are invented and cast into the “actual” world.

The creative power and promise in the application of video projection within scenarios such as these fall into two main categories:

The first is the way in which digital projection can “claim” or “re-invent” multiple, varied, visual elements in the built world.

The second is the more global, intrinsic nature of a projection system’s scalability.

While less overtly theatrical, the following two video examples illustrate these dynamics.

The first of these two videos documents the use of a single, 3000 lumen video projector, introducing imagery into a mural:

For this following “mural” four 10,000 lumen projectors are utilized:

New technology/ novel applications:

This next video shows rear- projection onto custom “ceiling screens” utilizing “ultra short- throw projection” …This is essentially a new class of projection technology making possible novel applications for both front and rear projection.

Mirrors!

This last video showcases an “infinity room” (mirrors on 4 walls, floor and ceiling of 12’x 12’x 8’ tall room) Of particular note here is that one of the walls is comprised of a two-way mirror and has an LED video wall behind it. Also featured here is a matrix of programmed LED lighting.

While the infinity room itself is perhaps not relevant to our conversation, it is shown at least to call attention to the possibilities for the integration of video display technology coupled with a two- way mirror within a built, scenic environment.