Discourse

Interactive Setup:

  • Participants sit at a round table with two microphones, engaging in a three-minute conversation.
  • Before starting, each participant selects a color to represent their voice, giving them personal agency in the creative process
  • A container with written conversation prompts is available for participants who may struggle to initiate a discussion.
  • The physical act of picking a random prompt adds an intentional element of control amid unpredictability.

Kaleidoscope Creation:

  • As participants speak, their voices are converted into dynamic kaleidoscope patterns displayed on a screen.
  • Pitch and sound input are processed in real-time using p5.js and the ml5 library, modifying the kaleidoscope’s shape and movement.

Decay and Clarity:

  • Older strokes fade over time to reflect the natural flow of conversation and prevent visual clutter.
  • This decay symbolizes the passing of thoughts and the impermanence of spoken words.

Replay and Sharing:

  • After the conversation ends, participants name their kaleidoscope.
  • By scanning a QR code, they can view a replay of their kaleidoscope on a dedicated website, with the option to see it in its entirety (without decay).

Process

Outcome

Participants leave with a deeper appreciation of the intricacies of dialogue and the beauty that emerges from human connection. The resulting kaleidoscopes serve as a tangible, visual memory of their conversation, one they can revisit, share, and reflect upon online.

The FCAT Undergraduate Conference, Vancouver

The project was recognized by the School of Interactive Arts and Technology at Simon Fraser University during th FCAT Undergraduate Conference.

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