I have always found it important to consider what I would change if I had more time to continue developing the project, or if I was to do it again. Although I am happy with how the project has evolved and the stage that it is at now; something that I consider to be a finished product, I would like to readdress the original brief that I set myself before the project. I had struggled to find a solution to produce a square column; something that I would like to research further once the project is finished, as I think that it would be a wonderful effect.
The columns that I produced in the end were visually stunning, and worked extremely well. I would have preferred, however, if they could have been brighter with a crisp outer line, something that was compromised for an increased level of control. This was a sensible decision for the project, which would not have been possible without the DMX controlled lights, but it is worth noting that the lights were not completely satisfactory.
My main regret concerning the project was surrounding the research and pre-production stage of the work. I did not use this period as effectively as I could have done, and feel that I should have utilized the time more wisely. This stage could have been used to test and make decisions that instead had to be made conducted during the production period of the project.
Although I enjoyed working on my own, as it granted me flexibility regarding schedule and decisions, I think that it would have been useful to have worked with a partner. Throughout my university career I have found it useful to work with somebody else, as I find it extremely useful to continuously bounce ideas back and forth, something that I was not able to do during this work (except for in a tutorial environment). A partner would have also benefitted my time management, which although I was able to organize myself effectively would probably have had more time to consider the theory behind the project.
Saturday 16 May 2009
Friday 15 May 2009
The Finished Product
I was pleased with the finished product, and how they project has been presented. Although the pictures below will not be able to express the installation to its full ability to does help to highlight how the project works and in particular how the colour appears.
As you can see the colours appear bright and bold, which will be even more apparent in the dark space of the studio. I am particularly pleased with how the interactive aspect of the work. The sensors detect motion well, which allows for the colour changes and on/off to be implemented well.
As you can see the colours appear bright and bold, which will be even more apparent in the dark space of the studio. I am particularly pleased with how the interactive aspect of the work. The sensors detect motion well, which allows for the colour changes and on/off to be implemented well.
Thursday 14 May 2009
Covering the structure
I had originally planned to paint the underside of the structure, which will provide camouflage for the structure, hopefully allowing it to blend into the black of the surrounding room. I was conscious that if the structure had been presented as it was it would have ruined the effect. The structure was constructed in order to house all of the equipment that will be used within the installation (apart from the haze machine), as it would remove the focus on the technology. The structure also provides a well rounded finish; as it means that there no loose wires, or power cables being run across the floor. This would not have been the same if the structure had remained wooden in appearance.
Since this initial decision to paint the structure was made I have since realize that material would provide a better finish. This decision was made as the structure would have required several coats of paint, which would have been extremely, time consuming, and also because the paint wood not have provide a good finish due to the texture of the wood. Fabric can lie across the beams, which will mean that the structure can appear flat, and still house the PIR detectors.
I attempted to find appropriate fabric in a few different fabric shops, but was unable to find something that was suitable and reasonable priced. For this reason I considered using bed sheets, which would large in size, and also relatively cheap. I eventually found a suitable option from Matalan.
Once I had cut the elastic from the edge of the sheets I was able to staple the material to the structure, ensuring to keep it pulled tightly, therefore appearing flat. I hope that once this will prevent the structure from being completely visible, and will enhance the idea that the lights are dissecting the presentation environment. I think the fabric provides a good finish, something that would have been lower quality if I had used paint.
Unfortunately the PIR detectors did not work properly through the material and as a result I had to cut holes, allowing them to be exposed but consequently work correctly. I also had to cut holes to allow the light through the material.
Since this initial decision to paint the structure was made I have since realize that material would provide a better finish. This decision was made as the structure would have required several coats of paint, which would have been extremely, time consuming, and also because the paint wood not have provide a good finish due to the texture of the wood. Fabric can lie across the beams, which will mean that the structure can appear flat, and still house the PIR detectors.
I attempted to find appropriate fabric in a few different fabric shops, but was unable to find something that was suitable and reasonable priced. For this reason I considered using bed sheets, which would large in size, and also relatively cheap. I eventually found a suitable option from Matalan.
Once I had cut the elastic from the edge of the sheets I was able to staple the material to the structure, ensuring to keep it pulled tightly, therefore appearing flat. I hope that once this will prevent the structure from being completely visible, and will enhance the idea that the lights are dissecting the presentation environment. I think the fabric provides a good finish, something that would have been lower quality if I had used paint.
Unfortunately the PIR detectors did not work properly through the material and as a result I had to cut holes, allowing them to be exposed but consequently work correctly. I also had to cut holes to allow the light through the material.
Health and Safety Issues
There have been several health and safety issues raised during the production of this project. As the installation will be shown to the public I have had to take each concern extremely seriously, enabling me to avoid injury to people moving around the structure.
The main concerns have involved suspending the structure from the ceiling and allowing users to walk underneath it, whilst all of the necessary equipment is stored on top of it. Following a meeting with Robert Belton (studio manager) and John Viney (set technician) I have been informed that it would be sensible to make a few minor changes in order to make the structure safer. This includes a change from the supporting hooks, to closed hoops, and also the introduction of carabineers at the end of the chains.
Unfortunately the carabineers that I had purchase were too large for the chains and I was unable to find small enough ones to fit the chains, as a result I decided to use D shackles, which will work just as well as they offer a closed link to the chains that cannot come undone.
This will make it certain that the chain could not slip from the structure even with any sudden jerks. The hooks can then be used as a secondary support; this will give the users enough time to move away from underneath the structure if one of the closed hoops or chains fails.
Whilst moving the lights into place I was aware that two lights located in the middle of an area where two plywood sheets meet, may appear unsecure, although the wood would support the weight. As a result I decided to add a further two cross beams to support these sections of the structure, again adding to the safety of the installation. As well as these supporting beams I have introduced supporting brackets that will hold the lights in place. Even though the lights are flat fronted and are unlikely to move, I wanted to make their stability certain, something which the brackets now guarantee. I have also made sure to bolt all of the equipment down to the structure. I first secured all of the equipment to another board using cable ties, and this board has been bolted to the structure preventing it from moving.
Throughout the construction of the frame and supports etc I have been sure to wear a mask, as the dust from the woodcuttings can be extremely fine and be breathed into the lungs.
Although many follow spots become fairly hot during use the one that I am using does not, due to its size and power. As a result there is no problem with securing the lights against the wood, which will have fabric secured on to it. The cooling fan that is built into each light is located near the back of the light, which will not be obstructed in any way, allowing for the light to keep cool.
Another concern that I have had since the start of the project has been the damage that haze can have on humans. However, the haze fluid that I am using is water based, and consequently does not pose any risks for the user’s health, even with long exposure the haze will not cause any problems.
Every care has been taken to make sure that the structure is safe and that the presentation will pose extremely small risk for the users involved.
The main concerns have involved suspending the structure from the ceiling and allowing users to walk underneath it, whilst all of the necessary equipment is stored on top of it. Following a meeting with Robert Belton (studio manager) and John Viney (set technician) I have been informed that it would be sensible to make a few minor changes in order to make the structure safer. This includes a change from the supporting hooks, to closed hoops, and also the introduction of carabineers at the end of the chains.
Unfortunately the carabineers that I had purchase were too large for the chains and I was unable to find small enough ones to fit the chains, as a result I decided to use D shackles, which will work just as well as they offer a closed link to the chains that cannot come undone.
This will make it certain that the chain could not slip from the structure even with any sudden jerks. The hooks can then be used as a secondary support; this will give the users enough time to move away from underneath the structure if one of the closed hoops or chains fails.
Whilst moving the lights into place I was aware that two lights located in the middle of an area where two plywood sheets meet, may appear unsecure, although the wood would support the weight. As a result I decided to add a further two cross beams to support these sections of the structure, again adding to the safety of the installation. As well as these supporting beams I have introduced supporting brackets that will hold the lights in place. Even though the lights are flat fronted and are unlikely to move, I wanted to make their stability certain, something which the brackets now guarantee. I have also made sure to bolt all of the equipment down to the structure. I first secured all of the equipment to another board using cable ties, and this board has been bolted to the structure preventing it from moving.
Throughout the construction of the frame and supports etc I have been sure to wear a mask, as the dust from the woodcuttings can be extremely fine and be breathed into the lungs.
Although many follow spots become fairly hot during use the one that I am using does not, due to its size and power. As a result there is no problem with securing the lights against the wood, which will have fabric secured on to it. The cooling fan that is built into each light is located near the back of the light, which will not be obstructed in any way, allowing for the light to keep cool.
Another concern that I have had since the start of the project has been the damage that haze can have on humans. However, the haze fluid that I am using is water based, and consequently does not pose any risks for the user’s health, even with long exposure the haze will not cause any problems.
Every care has been taken to make sure that the structure is safe and that the presentation will pose extremely small risk for the users involved.
Wednesday 13 May 2009
Columns of Colour
As the three couloured beams are such a major part of this installation i thought it was important to look at the associations people may make with each coloured beam.
Red:
When looking at the red beam I believe that the first connotations that will come to mind are those of lasers and infrared technology. It is common to find in many hollywood films the use of red beams to connote a large security system. Furthermore these red beams may be associated to the use of a weapon, for example the sight on a gun or a laser pen. Regarding technology, many may link the red beams to that found with computer components such as a key board or a mouse.
Green:
Regarding a green beam of light, i believe that science fiction connotations will be the first to surface. Throughout science fiction, green beams are used to connotate something other wordly. For example, these may be the beams from a spaceship or another alien object. The green light also connotates an eeiry feeling which may be linked to science fiction. As well as science fiction associations, green lasers are also seen at music shows, such as dance, techno and drum and bass. The green lights are very visually pleasing and add an extra element to the music.
Blue:
When looking at the blue columns of light, we can agin consider lasers. Although many associate the colour red with lasers, blue lasers are also commonaly used. Following on from the connotations with lasers, many also associate a blue beam with lightsabers as seen in the blockbuster films, Star Wars.
White:
With white beams of light, the most obvious connotations are with religion and deity. Throughout history, a white beams of light have been seen in art and literature surrounding religions. Many associate it with the pureness and goodness of religion and its advocates, a white light shining down from heaven, showing happiness and peace. This alo has links to the Sun and connotation linking to sunbeams. The use of spotlights and torches may also link to a white column of light, conjuring up connotations of rescue and security. Furthermore, the uses of spotlights in the theatre and stage productions may be thought of. Finally, the association with warships and searching spotlights may connotate a more hostile and dangerous connotation.
Although the connotations of white columns of light have been covered before, i felt it was important to look at all the connotations together so that each meaning could be studied in comparision to each other.
Red:
When looking at the red beam I believe that the first connotations that will come to mind are those of lasers and infrared technology. It is common to find in many hollywood films the use of red beams to connote a large security system. Furthermore these red beams may be associated to the use of a weapon, for example the sight on a gun or a laser pen. Regarding technology, many may link the red beams to that found with computer components such as a key board or a mouse.
Green:
Regarding a green beam of light, i believe that science fiction connotations will be the first to surface. Throughout science fiction, green beams are used to connotate something other wordly. For example, these may be the beams from a spaceship or another alien object. The green light also connotates an eeiry feeling which may be linked to science fiction. As well as science fiction associations, green lasers are also seen at music shows, such as dance, techno and drum and bass. The green lights are very visually pleasing and add an extra element to the music.
Blue:
When looking at the blue columns of light, we can agin consider lasers. Although many associate the colour red with lasers, blue lasers are also commonaly used. Following on from the connotations with lasers, many also associate a blue beam with lightsabers as seen in the blockbuster films, Star Wars.
White:
With white beams of light, the most obvious connotations are with religion and deity. Throughout history, a white beams of light have been seen in art and literature surrounding religions. Many associate it with the pureness and goodness of religion and its advocates, a white light shining down from heaven, showing happiness and peace. This alo has links to the Sun and connotation linking to sunbeams. The use of spotlights and torches may also link to a white column of light, conjuring up connotations of rescue and security. Furthermore, the uses of spotlights in the theatre and stage productions may be thought of. Finally, the association with warships and searching spotlights may connotate a more hostile and dangerous connotation.
Although the connotations of white columns of light have been covered before, i felt it was important to look at all the connotations together so that each meaning could be studied in comparision to each other.
Tuesday 12 May 2009
Wiring Everything Together
During the final set-up there were several extra features that were added to the structure, many of them are small details, but will add to the final presentation.
The first details was to drill holes in position that the wires from the PIR detectors can be run through, meaning that the wires are not exposed. Once all of the wires had been put in place, and wired in, I used cable ties to tie the wires from each PIR detector together, making the appearance neater and also will mean that organizing the equipment on top of the structure will be easier, as there want be as many loose wires.
Once everything was was wired into place, I decided to attach all of the components to a board, which could then be bolted to the mains structure, meaning that nothing would move during the presentation, helping to improve the health and safety.
The PIR detectors come with a LED fitted which turns on when the sensors detect movement, enabling it to be seen when the sensors on. Although this was useful during testing, I wanted to remove the LEDs, so that the LED did not ruin the effect during the presentation. Fortunately, this can be easily done as each detector has a switch enabling them to be turned off.
The first details was to drill holes in position that the wires from the PIR detectors can be run through, meaning that the wires are not exposed. Once all of the wires had been put in place, and wired in, I used cable ties to tie the wires from each PIR detector together, making the appearance neater and also will mean that organizing the equipment on top of the structure will be easier, as there want be as many loose wires.
Once everything was was wired into place, I decided to attach all of the components to a board, which could then be bolted to the mains structure, meaning that nothing would move during the presentation, helping to improve the health and safety.
The PIR detectors come with a LED fitted which turns on when the sensors detect movement, enabling it to be seen when the sensors on. Although this was useful during testing, I wanted to remove the LEDs, so that the LED did not ruin the effect during the presentation. Fortunately, this can be easily done as each detector has a switch enabling them to be turned off.
Monday 11 May 2009
New name?
I had initially decided to call the project 'Seeing is Believing' which played on the idea that light can't bend, and in order to believe it was happening you would have to see it. Since moving away from bending light, and with the adoption of colour I decided that it was necessary to change the name of the project. I also wanted to do this as I wanted the title to be more professional than the original idea. Whilst thinking of possibilities I was keen to think of something the the three columns could be represented in, for example a word with three "I's" and three "L's" as these could represent the columns in a logo format. I was also keen to think of something that explained the project, without necessarily given away the secrets to it. For example, I wanted it to be apparent that this was a piece concerning light, but didn't want to reveal the use of colour or on/off feature, or in fact that there were three columns, as these were features that I wanted to become apparent once the user was in the installation.
Whilst considering titles, the name illuminate came to mind, as it fits all of the criteria that I wanted from a title. I think it also considers the idea that light can be more than a means to illuminate, providing an antonymous adjective. I also liked the way that the word could appear with three columns in it "Illuminate" but how this would also go unnoticed until after the user had been in the installation.
Whilst considering titles, the name illuminate came to mind, as it fits all of the criteria that I wanted from a title. I think it also considers the idea that light can be more than a means to illuminate, providing an antonymous adjective. I also liked the way that the word could appear with three columns in it "Illuminate" but how this would also go unnoticed until after the user had been in the installation.
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