FLUIDS: An Interactive Installation Redefining Light

Immersive Art Experience Blends Light and Liquid Flow

FLUIDS stands out as a captivating part of the interactive art program developed by Kevin Sun. The installation allows audiences to engage with the artwork by touching the wall, experiencing the transformative power of their interactions. As viewers interact with the wall, they become integrated into the artwork itself, blurring the lines between observer and subject. Even those who choose to quietly observe the installation from a distance can enjoy a truly unique viewing experience.

The realization of FLUIDS involved a combination of artistic and technological processes. The initial art design was created using Photoshop, while Unity3D was utilized to compile and produce the software logic. The project also incorporated Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling to achieve realistic liquid flow effects.

Technical specifications for FLUIDS include six sets of HD projectors with a resolution of 11520px X 1200px, a computer, a projection screen measuring 32 meters by 4 meters, and two sets of radar recognition systems. The installation lasts for approximately 6 minutes and 40 seconds, providing viewers with an immersive and captivating experience.

FLUIDS is not only a visual spectacle but also a testament to the power of human-picture interaction. When viewers touch the screen, the installation recognizes and processes their input, creating feedback effects at the corresponding positions. This interactive element allows for a dynamic and engaging visual experience.

The FLUIDS project was initiated in May 2019 in Daqing and completed in June 2019. It became an integral part of Gooest Technology's interactive art program and was showcased at the first Digital Art Innovation Development and Cross-Border Integration Summit in 2019.

Throughout the development process, Kevin Sun and his team conducted extensive research and testing to optimize the project. Nine iterations were created, each incorporating feedback from small-scale audience tests. This iterative approach ensured that the final version of FLUIDS was tailored to meet the needs and expectations of viewers, making it a highly adaptable and modular design concept.

One of the main challenges faced during the creation of FLUIDS was achieving a realistic and aesthetically pleasing liquid flow effect while maintaining the interactive nature of the installation. Through meticulous analog design, actual calculations, and analysis of audience data, Kevin Sun and his team were able to create a visually stunning result that is suitable for various interactive appreciation scenarios. The software was also optimized to ensure a seamless and cost-effective operation without compromising the overall aesthetic and experiential impact.

FLUIDS invites visitors to immerse themselves in a poetic and philosophical sensory experience. By blurring the boundaries between light and liquid, the installation sparks contemplation and curiosity about the relationship between humans, life, and nature. Through its unique combination of art, technology, and interactive elements, FLUIDS offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience.

FLUIDS has been recognized for its outstanding design and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interface, Interaction, and User Experience Design category in 2020. This prestigious award acknowledges FLUIDS' incorporation of best practices in art, science, design, and technology, as well as its contribution to improving the quality of life through innovative and impactful experiences.