Digital Design Sensations
An exhibition under the name “Decode” is currently hosted at the V&A and some Populous staff have already had the chance to visit it and most importantly interact with the exhibits.
The general subject driving all work on show is the use of digital language as means to represent current social trends via demonstration of moving image on various surfaces (screen, projection on 2 and 3 dimensions, uniform or fragmented). The subject is either prescribed, recorded and played back or in some cases derives spontaneously from interaction with the audience.
Contemporary technology has been used to construct abstract fractal compositions or indeed more recognisable patterns like data graphs: while originally representing actual values of social media trends, they are now being taken to a new level, viewed from a different perspective away from the data they represent as merely aesthetically pleasing objects yet still retaining evident traces to our everyday lives, which is what makes them so tangible.
The other major subject is the literal or lateral captivation of the audience within the installations: Literally where the crowds are incorporated in the composition via mirrors or indeed cameras -in real time or playback. And laterally where the project’s reaction to one’s moves, shouts or jumps captivates the visitor’s interest to directly interact with the installations. People seem to enjoy offering a piece of themselves towards creating a unique composition, even if it is only meant to last for an instant.
It is a really vibrant event, with often indiscernible boundaries between exhibits and audience: the work flows and takes over the space with those interacting subsequently becoming actors to those overlooking. A highly recommended event not only to admire the high aesthetic value of the projects or the very smartly developed base concepts but also for a fun day out.
The exhibition will continue until April 11th 2010. For more information please visit the exhibition website http://www.vam.ac.u...k/microsites/decode/
