Balloon
Balloon (2024) is an interactive installation that explores the concept of digital skin, capturing the fluid motion of a body part in space, mirroring the natural movement of skin. As the avatar’s skin folds inward, it encapsulates emotions buried within the subconscious mind.
The avatar takes the form of a balloon-like figure, drifting freely with a rhythmic cycle of inflation and deflation. When the ceiling lights shift, casting moments of darkness, audiences can engage with the digital skin through a specialized device that senses airflow speed. As participants blow into the device, the digital skin responds and moves through the space, reflecting the intensity of their breath.
My role: Interaction Design, Physical Design
More Info:
https://keerzhao.com/Balloon
The avatar takes the form of a balloon-like figure, drifting freely with a rhythmic cycle of inflation and deflation. When the ceiling lights shift, casting moments of darkness, audiences can engage with the digital skin through a specialized device that senses airflow speed. As participants blow into the device, the digital skin responds and moves through the space, reflecting the intensity of their breath.
My role: Interaction Design, Physical Design
More Info:
https://keerzhao.com/Balloon
Physical Design
The airspeed detection device features an Arduino Nano 33 IoT, a wind sensor, and a battery pack. For seamless wireless interaction between the audience and the installation, the Arduino transmits real-time wind speed data to Unreal Engine via OSC. This data is then mapped to control the movement of the digital skin.