Zsófia Ruttkay
I am interested in interactive structures: visual patterns that change as response to external stimuli. This general definition allows changes with time (evolving images, animations), changes to urban stimuli (sound level, weather or pollution conditions, traffic parameters) and unintentional or intentional, but natural action of people in front of the (projected) image, by making sounds, walking around, gesturing or touching. Such interactive tasks are challenging in educational situations, especially to invite art students to study underlying mathematical principles (L-systems, symmetry transformations) and to acquire skills in computer graphics and programming. Interactive applications simulated on a computer screen can serve on large-scale displays or projections as urban decorations, novel data visualization or serious games to make citizens move, connect and smile.
The Interactive Wall is an installation to explore different
tessellation, both considering the ornament on the square tiles
and the patterns of transformation of tiles. The initial display
is defined by choosing a tile design from a set prepared by art
students, and arranging examples in one of 6 patterns, or in a
random way. The surface is sensitive for touches by the visitors.
Each touch results in a transformation (rotation or mirroring) on
the affected tile. The display reflects the exploratory or
goal-directed action of the visitors, who may also get intrigued
to find out the underlying mathematical principles.
Equipment: canvas, with computer, camera and projector behind (1-4
m). The Interactive Wall could be displayed in an alley or cut-off
corner of some public space at Bridges, or in a door (to an unused
room). The size of the canvas may be as big as the max size of 2d
exhibits, but a wall-like measure would do better for interaction.