Coexistence
Coexistence by Rebecca Alan stands as a pioneering example of early interactive art, offering a glimpse into the possibilities of multi-dimensional experiences. Conceived in 2001, the exhibit invites two participants to don headgear equipped with controllers and breath sensors, immersing them in a shared augmented reality. Seated across from each other, participants embark on a journey where their perceptions of the "real" world are profoundly altered.
One Participant of the art exhibit. Rebecca Alan Website
Through the headsets, participants witness each other's augmented representations, overlaying the physical environment with virtual elements. This augmentation dynamically responds to their breath, with each inhalation and exhalation shaping the virtual landscape. The intimate proximity of the participants, coupled with the sensory immersion of hearing and feeling each other's breath, creates a profound sense of closeness within the confined space.
Footage of exhibit in progress. Rebecca Allan Website
Against the backdrop of the early 2000s, a period marked by rapid technological advancement, Coexistence emerges as a testament to the era's innovative spirit. While endeavors like the development of an AR browser hinted at the potential for integrating virtual and physical realities, Coexistence stands out for its tangible realization of this vision. Unlike the AR browser's faltering attempts due to technological limitations, the exhibit demonstrates real-time animation and area mapping, pushing the boundaries of what was achievable at the time.
View of what the user sees. Rebecca Allen Website
The technological underpinnings of Coexistence reflect the broader landscape of the early 2000s, characterized by the proliferation of devices like smartphones, the internet's growing ubiquity, and advancements in animation software such as Maya. Notably, Maya, a cornerstone of the exhibit's creation, had already made its mark in the film industry, contributing to productions like the Star Wars prequels.
Starwars Prequels poster image, obtained from .Theplaylist
View of what the users are generating inside the instillation. Rebecca Allen Website
Embedded within the technological marvel of Coexistence lies artist Rebecca Allen's profound exploration of human connection and equality. By orchestrating intimate sensory experiences typically reserved for lovers, Allen challenges participants to forge connections and reimagine their shared reality. In doing so, she underscores the transformative power of intimacy in shaping perceptions and fostering collaboration.
Two participants using their breath to interact with the world. Rebecca Allen Website
Coexistence transcends its status as a mere art installation, serving as a beacon of innovation and a testament to the human desire for connection and collective creation. In its synthesis of technology and artistry, it offers a glimpse into a future where boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds blur, inviting participants to co-create a reality that reflects their shared aspirations.
Sources:
Meet Kraftwerk's Original 3-D Animator, Rebecca Allen | WIRED
How Much Does Augmented Reality Cost? Key Factors & Real-World Examples — ITRex (itrexgroup.com)
History of Maya - InspirationTuts
Y2K bug | Definition, Hysteria, & Facts | Britannica
Coexistence - ADA | Archive of Digital Art (digitalartarchive.at)
https://codereality.net/ar-for-eu-book/chapter/introduction/historyar/
