Abstract (short paper)

Keywords: Generative Ambient Display, Biophilic Design, Aesthetics, Emotion, Attention, Orienting Reflex, Place-making

Principles of biophilic design, and neuroscientific theories of the Orienting Reflex (OR) show some similarities that together make for an effective way to creatively develop the aesthetic use of generative ambient screens in public space, as a way to foster orientation and place making. This paper gives an account of three examples of generative ambient public installations and interdisciplinary methods applied through ethnographic methods to interpret responses from those who attended the installations. In reflecting on the effects of aesthetic elements I have used in generative ambient installations, this paper is motivated by the question: How can principles of biophilic design be used in public ambient media screens to enhance mood, attention restoration and place-making?

• John Power, School of Design, School of Media and Communication, RMIT University, Australia