Name:

THRESHOLD

Description:

Interactive Audio-Visual Installation

Capture:

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About the Work:

This interactive audio-visual installation explores a state of transition—a liminal space where transformation takes place in secrecy and isolation. At its core, it symbolizes potential energy, encapsulating both the fragility of the cocoon and the immense force required to break free. This metaphor extends beyond biological processes, reflecting human psychological states: moments of self-reflection, growth, and resilience before entering a new phase of existence. The concept of a “threshold” is not tied to a physical place but represents a moment of becoming—a point of tension and anticipation, where everything feels poised on the verge of change. The straining threads and shimmering energy within the cocoon evoke the emotional charge of waiting, teetering on the edge of the unknown. Yet, the work also embraces ambiguity: Will the transformation succeed, or will it falter? What lies beyond the cocoon remains an open question, inviting personal interpretation.

Instructions:

Running the Installation:

• Make sure you have the latest version of ChucK and ChuGL installed.
• Open the code file (threshold.ck) and run it in the ChucK environment. (command line: chuck threshold.ck)

Interacting with the Installation:

In Threshold, the camera provides an immersive way to explore the cocoon and its dynamic transformations. You can control the camera to zoom, rotate, and adjust your perspective, allowing you to experience the installation from various angles and distances. Here's how to interact with the camera:

1. Zoom In and Out

   • Up Arrow Key: Zoom closer to the cocoon, revealing details of the threads and the mysterious being within the cocoon.
   • Down Arrow Key: Zoom further away, gaining a broader perspective of the cocoon's interaction.
   • The zoom range is limited to ensure optimal interaction: the camera cannot move closer than 0.5 units or further than 70 units.

2. Rotate Horizontally

   • A Key: Rotate the camera to the left, circling around the cocoon.
   • D Key: Rotate the camera to the right, continuing the orbit in the opposite direction.
   • Use these keys to examine the cocoon from all sides, discovering its full complexity.

3. Rotate Vertically

   • W Key: Move the camera upward, changing the vertical angle of view.
   • S Key: Move the camera downward, tilting the view closer to the ground.
   • The vertical angle is naturally restricted to maintain a clear focus on the cocoon.

4. Self-Rotation and Smooth Transitions
   The camera continuously performs a gentle self-rotation, simulating the natural flow and rhythm of the cocoon. This subtle movement can be overridden and combined with your manual controls for a seamless, responsive experience.

5. Observe the Threads and Spheres
   Notice the delicate moving threads and floating spheres within the cocoon. These elements represent the flow of energy, potential, and fragility. Their movement evolves continuously, influenced by the environment.

How to Exit the Installation:

• Simply stop the ChucK process or close the ChuGL window.

Video:

Chuck Codes:

References:

• ChucK Class Library Reference
• ChuGL API Reference