Germination: An Immersive Installation by Atsushi Kobayashi

An Artistic Journey of Growth and Transformation

At the heart of Germination is the concept of returning to a normal and peaceful world, where people can overcome constraints and bloom once again. The installation serves as a visual representation of this wish, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world of possibilities and new beginnings.

The uniqueness of Germination lies in its immersive experience. The industrial robot arm, choreographed as a sprout, emerges from the ground after a period of dormancy. At the beginning of the show, it absorbs nourishment from its LED roots and gradually starts to germinate. As rain falls and thunder rumbles, the robot arm sways in the wind, creating a sense of movement and life. Rays of sunlight shine through clouds, signaling the final stage of transformation, as the robot arm blooms in all its glory.

To bring this vision to life, Kobayashi and his team faced various technical challenges. They developed a communication system to remotely control the industrial robot arm, taking into account its maximum payload and moment. Additionally, attachment equipment specifically designed for this robot arm was created in collaboration with Wing Robotics, a startup company. The result was a show control system that is user-friendly and accessible to all.

The Germination installation measures 3 meters in width, 3 meters in depth, and 2 meters in height. Its technical specifications ensure a visually stunning and immersive experience for viewers.

Germination is a testament to the power of art, design, and technology to evoke emotions and inspire change. Through its captivating visuals and symbolic narrative, it encourages viewers to reflect on their own journeys of growth and transformation.

Germination was exhibited in Go Tech, Tokyo in March 2022, following its development in April 2021. The project received support from Wing Robotics and Fanuc, and utilized software such as TouchDesigner and Blender, as well as hardware including the Fanuc CRX-10iA/L and a Windows PC.

This remarkable installation has garnered recognition in the design world, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2023. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

Germination is a testament to the power of art to inspire, transform, and create a better world. Through its innovative use of technology and its profound message of growth and renewal, it leaves a lasting impression on all who experience it.