RElectronics
Intro to Physical Computation | Group work
Design, Physical Computing, Installation
Interactive Telecommunication Program, Tisch, NYU
2019
Introduction
RElectronics are electronics who abandoned their original identity and transform into something different.
The whole series is composed of 3 independent installations that share the same concept.
An electric fan turns into a turntable
A set of phones turns into a whack-a-mole-game
A turntable turns into a bubble machine
Video Demo
Concept Development
This project started with the obsession we have with old electronics. Different from more modern ones with touch screens, we found it lots of fun playing with buttons and mechanisms they have.
We went to a few old electronic stores and factories for treasure hunts, which turned to be quite thought-provoking for us. Why an abandoned, the obsolete machine feels attractive to us? What motivates us to interact and play with a machine that may not be "functional" at all?
Is it because the history behind it piques our curiosity? Is it because we want to recall the good old time through it? Is it because it's inefficiency makes it more human-like and rises our empathy? Is it because it inspires us to imagine an alternative world with more romance than the real one? Is it because…
This project is not an answer to our question because it’s difficult to define a certain one. It shows the process of trying to understand our complicated feelings towards old electronics and provides viewers with serious fun.
Design
Physical Computing
Fabrication