Interactive projections : the mechanics of interactive video design

Abstract

As an incoming Freshman at Ball State, I knew two things for certain: I had a passion for theatre, and I wanted to pursue a career in video. For all I knew, these were separate worlds. Theatre is based on live performance, and is meant to be beautiful in the moment. Often times video recording is prohibited in theatrical performances not just for legal reasons, it is simply not how the art form is meant to be consumed. Theatre is meant to be seen and experienced live and in person. Video on the other hand exists in a world of re-takes and post enhancements that allow it to be fine-tuned into a perfect and deliverable product. Combining the worlds of live and raw with edited and specific was something that I only imagined was possible, that is, until I found projections. Projection design is the art of creating and integrating assets such as video clips and motion graphics, with technology through projectors, cameras, monitors, even LED walls. This can be used to enhance a performance for theatre, dance, concerts, etc. However, projections can be taken one step further. Instead of simply playing content and projecting ·It into a space, I wanted to explore interacting with the content as well. When it comes to the interactive world, there are an infinite amount of possibilities, and from all of my projection design experience from designing theatrical shows, I have never been asked, or challenged, to do an interactive piece. For my Honors Thesis Project, I would like to combine both research and creative components to create an interactive projections piece.