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"AWAKE" sounds like an intriguing exploration at the intersection of traditional art and emerging technology. The use of Arduino and conductive ink to create an interactive painting introduces an innovative way for viewers to engage with the artwork. This fusion of mediums not only pushes the boundaries of illustration but also challenges the passive nature of art consumption by requiring active participation from the observer.

The incorporation of sensorial triggers and light in this series of interactive artworks signifies a shift towards a more immersive and multi-sensory experience. By enabling the painting to respond to touch and proximity, it blurs the lines between the physical and digital realms, inviting viewers to become part of the art piece's narrative.

The utilization of Arduino as the processing unit behind the canvas showcases the potential for technology to enhance and redefine traditional art forms. It opens doors to a realm where illustrations can transcend their static nature, becoming dynamic and responsive, thereby transforming the way we perceive and interact with visual art.

This exploration not only delves into the capabilities of new technologies like conductive ink and Arduino but also provokes contemplation on the evolving relationship between art and its audience. It prompts questions about the role of the observer in interpreting and experiencing art, emphasizing the necessity for active engagement to fully comprehend the essence and message conveyed by the artwork.

Overall, "AWAKE" represents a forward-thinking approach to illustration, paving the way for a future where art embraces technological advancements to create immersive, participatory, and captivating experiences for its audience.

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“Awake” is an exploration of the future of illustration: new technologies finally allow objects to respond to the environment and to the observer, paintings become alive and viewers are not passive anymore: they need to engage to full grasp the meaning and soul of the art piece.

 
MAKING OF

This piece is intended as the first of an interactive series using sensorial triggers and light. The image is painted on white paper with Bare Conductive, a cutting edge conductive ink, able to sense touch and proximity. The ink is connected, behind the canvas, to an Arduino, which processes each paint sensor. Finally, hand drawn animations are connected to each input via Processing and triggered by the observer’s touch.

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It's a painting you stand in front of it.

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It's a painting you stand in front of it.

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"It's a Painting, You Stand in Front of It" offers a captivating fusion of art and interactive technology. This art installation comprises an acrylic panel housing a painting divided into four rotating panels reminiscent of a spinning fan. The innovative aspect emerges as the speed of rotation dynamically responds to the proximity and touch of a human observer.

Employing acrylic on panels alongside three infrared proximity sensors, four stepper motors, and Arduino on a substantial 48 x 48 inches canvas, this installation stands as an intriguing blend of traditional artistry and cutting-edge technology.

The interactivity of this piece captivates the audience by allowing their presence to influence the pace of the rotating panels. As a person approaches the artwork, the rotation gradually slows down, engaging them in an intimate interaction with the piece. Upon touching the sensor embedded within the painting, the rotation comes to a complete halt or moves at an exceedingly slow interval, fostering a deepened connection between the viewer and the artwork.

This installation prompts contemplation on the relationship between human presence and art, inviting observers to actively participate in shaping the visual experience. By seamlessly integrating sensors, motors, and Arduino technology, it not only transforms the static nature of traditional paintings but also invites reflection on the evolving role of technology in the realm of artistic expression.

Overall, "It's a Painting, You Stand in Front of It" stands as a remarkable example of how art installations can transcend "It's a Painting, You Stand in Front of It" offers a captivating fusion of art and interactive technology. This art installation comprises an acrylic panel housing a painting divided into four rotating panels reminiscent of a spinning fan. The innovative aspect emerges as the speed of rotation dynamically responds to the proximity and touch of a human observer.

Employing acrylic on panels alongside three infrared proximity sensors, four stepper motors, and Arduino on a substantial 48 x 48 inches canvas, this installation stands as an intriguing blend of traditional artistry and cutting-edge technology.

The interactivity of this piece captivates the audience by allowing their presence to influence the pace of the rotating panels. As a person approaches the artwork, the rotation gradually slows down, engaging them in an intimate interaction with the piece. Upon touching the sensor embedded within the painting, the rotation comes to a complete halt or moves at an exceedingly slow interval, fostering a deepened connection between the viewer and the artwork.

This installation prompts contemplation on the relationship between human presence and art, inviting observers to actively participate in shaping the visual experience. By seamlessly integrating sensors, motors, and Arduino technology, it not only transforms the static nature of traditional paintings but also invites reflection on the evolving role of technology in the realm of artistic expression.

Overall, "It's a Painting, You Stand in Front of It" stands as a remarkable example of how art installations can transcend conventional boundaries, offering an immersive and participatory experience that blurs the lines between the observer and the artwork.conventional boundaries, offering an immersive and participatory experience that blurs the lines between the observer and the artwork.

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It's a painting you stand in front of it.

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Acrylic on Panel, 3 Infrared Proximity Sensors, 4 Stepper Motors, and Arduino. 48 x 48 inches. 2015.

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"Digital Being, Singularity-B-001" is a compelling artwork that, in a small, 9x9x9-inch frame, captures the essence of a developing artificial intelligence creature. This 2021 work, which aims to investigate the emergence of an unidentified AI creature in the midst of drastic change, represents the revolutionary transition into a digital age.

The concept of the Digital Being—an entity seeking its consciousness amid the changing technological landscape—centers the worldview offered in this exhibit. From a random assortment of abandoned technology, Singularity-B-002, a primitive member of this mysterious family of Digital Beings, culminates in an early form of its developing consciousness.

By including an exciting responsive aspect, this artwork encourages interaction. When a person slides their palm across the piece, ambient light brightens and some electrical components within its structure activate. This dynamic response allows spectators to implicitly connect with this embryonic Digital Being through gestures, symbolising the awakening or limited perception of the entity.

This installation combines electronics, a USB charger, and Arduino distance sensors in a way that blurs the lines between art and technology. It captures the spirit of inquiry and discovery into the unknown, provoking viewers to consider the development of artificial intelligence and how it relates to the changing digital landscape.

This installation is a fascinating and provocative creative investigation that encourages reflection on the intersection of technology, consciousness, and the potential emergence of new digital entities in an ever-evolving world.

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Scott Gardner's Arduino project for the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh is a testament to the fusion of art, technology, and playfulness. This interactive musical art installation serves as a dedicated experience for kids, demonstrating the magic of hidden technology within a large-scale mural.

Crafted with precision and designed with care, the installation remains visually seamless, concealing its electronic components while encouraging children to engage in an interactive and collaborative experience. The simplicity of its interaction—touching both the moon and stars, either independently or by joining hands with others—elicits delightful tones, creating an immersive and harmonious musical atmosphere.

As a part of a tough art residency program, this project not only showcases the creativity and technical prowess of Scott Gardner but also embodies the essence of making technology accessible and enjoyable for younger audiences. By merging art and interactive elements in an unobtrusive manner, it fosters a sense of wonder and exploration among children, inviting them to discover the hidden potential of the mural.

The installation's emphasis on collaboration—encouraging children to hold hands to activate the musical tones—nurtures a spirit of teamwork and social interaction, fostering a dynamic and engaging environment within the museum space.

Overall, this Arduino-powered interactive mural stands as a prime example of how technology can be seamlessly integrated into art installations, offering a whimsical and educational experience for children, where creativity, exploration, and collaboration converge in a harmonious blend of art and technology.

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Zoe Romano -

The weekly post on the Arduino Micro, made in collaboration with Adafruit, is dedicated to an installation for kids made by Scott Garner, a designer, developer and craftsman:

Reach is a large-scale interactive mural and musical instrument created for the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh as part of the Tough Art residency program. There are no visible electronics, but when users touch both the moon and a star (either alone or by holding hands with others) a tone is played.

The Arduino sketch and PureData patch are viewable on GitHub and below you can watch an inspiring video of the "Making of":

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An Interactive Musical Art Installation for kids #ArduinoMicroMonday | Arduino Blog

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The weekly post on the Arduino Micro, made in collaboration with Adafruit, is dedicated to an installation for kids made by Scott Garner, a designer, developer and craftsman: Reach is a large-scale interactive mural and musical instrument created for the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh as part of the Tough Art residency program.