[ISEA2019] Paper: Brendan Harwood — Volumetric Light Sculptures: Occupying the space between the apparatus and the image

Abstract

Keywords: Light, Sculpture, Projections, Lasers, Volumetric Light, Darkness, Apparatus, Form.

This paper aims to formalise a subset of technologies which possess the ability to produce different forms of volumetric light, a fundamental consideration of artists where light is the primordial medium within their practice. Volumetric light may occur when light is focused by an optical lens or emitted from a light producing apparatus, this light then made visible by obstructive, semi-opaque or translucent materials and surfaces. The light can form intangible, three dimensional, volumetric sculptures that redefine temporal spatial relationships. The subset within my classification of light producing apparatuses are all driven by a signal control, often a computer system, classified as digital light [1]. These forms of light may be used to define the space or exist within the space. This paper will look at LED arrays, Lasers/Searchlights, and Video Projectors. As this connects with my own practice, it is important to better understand the taxonomy of these devices to anticipate what paths they may forge in the development of new imaging systems.

  • Brendan Harwood is a PhD candidate in the School of Design at RMIT University Melbourne, Australia. His current research engages with the placemaking capabilities of light and how artists have manipulated light as the primary, intangible, medium intheir practice. With a background and formal training in 2D animation, both hand drawn and motion graphics, he is now interested in non-screen based means of moving-image media presentation and how these methods of display, often incorporating projection mapping and/or spatial augmented reality, influence the design and production process of the media.

Full text (PDF) p. 262-268