Audio Graffiti is a multi-user sound/music installation that explores new modes of sonic interaction, afforded by the latest in locative technologies. Set in an "audio augmented" environment, several mobile users may create and explore a gradually evolving collage of audio graffiti. Equipped with an iPhone and headset, each participant can "tag" or "spray" sound on to real physical features. We also provide several small musical instruments, which can be used along with one's voice, to add sounds to the collaborative musical mix. The terrain is seeded with some pre-existing sonic material, which allows participants to synchronize rhythmically, and maintains cohesion over time. All user-contributed sounds slowly fade away, resulting in an ever-evolving musical piece. As users moves about, they also experience a changing sonic perspective of the localized sounds, based on their particular location. Thus, users not only create the audio content, but they also participate actively in the encounter (remixing) of sonic material. Participants who are waiting their turn in the staging area may watch a real-time 3D visualization of the installation, which shows avatars of each player walking amongst virtual sound sources. Furthermore, we aim to model at least some surfaces in the environment, allowing users to "snap" their audio graffiti tags to real-world objects (eg, a wall).
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Press:
Ubisense precise real-time location deployed with mobile devices for unique 3D audio experience. Press release from Ubisense.org. Apr 28, 2010.
Virtual Meets Physical in Cummings Art Center: Two Perspectives on Biennial CAT Symposium “Revolution: Technology as Change”. The College Voice. Mar 9, 2010.