A
Initial definition: Interaction is defined as a cyclical process where one actor performs one task, and another reacts, which then in response the original actor responds again.
Definition post-midterm project: Throughout the previous developments in this class, I have learned that interaction is the process of communication and response between two participants, that continuously goes back and forth.
Evolution: My definition of interaction has not changed significantly, but I believe there is an importance that every interaction is composed of at least two characters. And in order for the interaction to be present, there must be a cyclical process of communication and response. However, at the beginning I was not sure how intuitive this process needed to be, however, now I am more confident that this is rather a cycle and not simply a process of deliverance and feedback. One player gives an input, which is feedback, and then this cycle should be able to be repeated over and over. Something that simply reacts to a singular stimulus is not total interaction.
B
In line with my definition:
On Space Time Foam, Tomas Saraceno
A project that I found that resonates with my idea of interaction is On Space Time Foam by Tomas Saraceno. This interactive art installation invites visitors to walk on top of a transparent membrane and float in the air. This installation is entirely interactive because it entices the visitors to literally become apart of the installation and have fun with it. They will not only interact with the membrane by crawling over it and altering its shape, but they will also interact with others also climbing across the installation, as their weight will fluctuate the position of the membrane, then causing the position of others on the installation to change. This will then influence individuals to interact with each other by moving across a shared medium. Not only is there communication through the movement of the individual and the installation, but there is also the response of the movement of the membrane and the individual. This is supposed to represent the interconnectedness of the rhythm of time and space. Not only can one interact with the installation directly, but those who wish to not take the daring task of climbing on top of the clear cloud can view the installation from below, giving an entirely unique perspective. This follows my definition of interaction because it allows multiple beings and mediums to send information through their movement, in which others can then be triggered by, and respond to with their own movements. This mimics the rhythm of being and communicating with the physical.
Obliteration Room, Yayoi Kusama
Another art installation that I believe follows my definition of interaction is Yayoi Kusama’s Obliteration Room. This installation is an all-white furnished room in which each visitor is given a colored sticker to place somewhere. They are then given the freedom to place the colored sticker anywhere in the room. Over time, the once all-white room will turn into an architectural rainbow. Following my definition, this is entirely interactive as each visitor is inclined to permanently change the appearance of the exhibition. Then as more and more people add color to the room, new visitors will be influenced to place their colored stickers over less colorful parts of the room. As the room’s appearance is always changing as long as new guests enter the exhibit, it will give off an entirely new reality in which the guests that come thereafter will be influenced by the past, but will also design a new physical future.
Not in line with my definition:
An example of a project that does not utilize interaction is Passage by Do Ho Suh. This work is a series of sculptures made of translucent fabric that formulate a message on the impermanence of historical meaning. While this art installation is extremely meaningful, it does not evoke any sort of interaction following my definition. There is the process of appreciation and awe that comes from a visitor who is able to empathize with this piece, however, there is nothing the user can do that causes the installation to react in return. This is a one-way street of communication, not a two-way street. In fact, any kind of physical interaction with the installation is extremely discouraged as it is made from a delicate fabric.
C
Interaction is a two-way street of communication and response between at least two beings/objects that stimulates new perceptions and realities.