“Oceanic Scales” presented by II
Photo from genefelice.com
Symposium:
Session Title:
- Climate Change
Presentation Title:
- Oceanic Scales
Presenter(s):
Venue(s):
Abstract:
Visitors to Oceanic Scales will explore their role in maintaining a stable ocean ecology through a multi-sensory, interactive art and science puzzle inspired by the micro-organisms of the sea.
The focus is to encourage change toward sustainable living practices by engaging the public to reflect on and perhaps better understand how humans impact the environment at local and global scales. Light, scent, sound and touch inspire new ways of thinking about ocean health. Oceanic Scales explores the visualization and contextualization of ocean sensor data into a creative digital output, streamed from local and mobile water sensors. This exhibit gives visitors the ability to experience the work either passively or actively.
They can absorb its multi-sensory interpretation of ocean data as complex patterns of light and sound, or they can decide to become an active agent of change, trying out various trial and error scenarios by adjusting temperature, PH and nitrogen levels within the automated gaming system. Instability may lead to a system crash; harmony and grace can be achieved through perceived stability, patience and new understanding. The physical structure is ecologically minded, built with local bamboo plywood and pine resin, corn plastic 3D printed forms, recycled cardboard, natural latex rubber, solar power and a living component of native plant species.
Biology, Ecology, Computer Science and Engineering at UCSC came together to make this idea possible. Gene Felice, Jennifer Parker and the Openlab research group and the Coaction Lab have given their creativity, time and effort to see this project through to completion. Students received access to equipment, experience, training and new inspiration as well as greater understanding of the natural systems that we have a responsibility to maintain.
