This piece resulted from our efforts to investigate the specific challenges and opportunities associated with constructing and controlling such fragmented light sculptures. Rather than just mapping a moving two-dimensional image onto our three-dimensional arrangement, we set out to find a method of control specifically suited for these types of spatial compositions. Using open source environments like Blender + Python and openFrameworks, we developed control software that takes into account the spatial coordinates of the individual Wixels.
In addition to their direct aesthetic value such sculptures employ the well known quality of motion, light and colours to affect atmosphere and mood. Depending on the kind of content on display this impact ranges from the subtle to the magical. Based on our experience with Wixel Cloud we are looking forward to create other active and reactive/interactive Wixel sculptures [update - which we did! Check out our work Swarm created for an interactive light art exhibition].
Watch the video of Wixel Cloud experiments on Vimeo!