bubble cosmos

2007

b.c.p. (JP)

Kids have always been fascinated by soap bubbles. Now, there’s an updated way to play with them at the Ars Electronica Center!

In “bubble cosmos,” colorful computer graphics are projected onto smoke-filled bubbles. When they’re made to burst, they blare out sound effects, the images are transformed, and installation visitors are treated to a whole series of amazing visuals.

Cameras determine the respective position and status (intact or not) of each individual bubble. The smoke inside them is necessary to facilitate the recognition process. The information is then processed by computer and the ensuing reactions are attuned to the visitors’ movements.