TRANSNATIONAL ACTIVATION OF SIMULTANEOUS TOUCH (2022)
In this project, artist Marnix de Nijs researched the artistic exploration of networked touch and developed several touch enabling prototypes that reflect on the desire for transnational simultaneous touch. The preliminary conclusion of this research is a set of wrist worn devices that simulate the sensation of stroking each other while physically apart.
The project was initiated in the context of the Covid outbreak, a time frame in which we mainly communicated with colleagues, friends and family via the screen. This situation made us realise that although we have built up a good infrastructure for video calls and exchanging information via shared online workplaces, this is not the same as being physically present somewhere; people missed a handshake, a hug or a pat on the shoulder.Happily enough this situation seems to be over but the communication of touch over a network remains keeping its relevance, already since the 1980s there has been speculated about the design of a next generation of telepresence. Several situations can be imagined where people are longing for a sense of touch while telecommunicating, think for example at people who do not live in a traditional family situation and among vulnerable and isolated groups such as the elderly. Further research into this kinda applications is on the to-do list.
Capacitance sensors measure if and how hard the device is touched. A grid of vibration motors is creating the physical output. The final device has 16 of these motors in an 8 by 2 grid, with this configuration a convincing caressing sensation could be generated; a sensation of being caressed from A to B with one or two fingers.
Custom web interfaces integrate the communication between the touch devices, the audio and the video streams. On the screen, the user receives visual feedback of his own physical input and the physical input of the other person. For the first presentation the screens where integrated in a specially designed portal.
Transnational Activation of Simultaneous Touch is developed as part of V2_Lab and In4Art’s Reenacting the Archive Residency.
Artist:
Marnix de Nijs
Web application:
Jan Misker
Hardware programming and electronics:
Yoana Buzova & JoaK, Rotterdam, NL
photographs by:
Fenna de Jong, Rotterdam, NL
Financial support:
In4Art, Rotterdam, NL
Creative Industries Fund, NL