Body Scanned Architecture

Ruth Schnell
© Interactive computer installationAustrian Pavilion, La Biennale di Venezia, 1995Opaque acrylic glass, live camera, video projector, mirror, Silicon Graphics onyx computer, Silicon Graphics Extreme 2Software design: Gideon May ; Ruth Schnell

Ruth Schnell

Body Scanned Architecture ,
Co-workers & Funding
Software design: Gideon May
Documents
  • Body Scanned Architecture
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  • Body Scanned Architecture
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  • Body Scanned Architecture
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  • Body Scanned Architecture
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  • Body Scanned Architecture
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  • Body Scanned Architecture
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  • Body Scanned Architecture
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  • Body Scanned Architecture
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  • Body Scanned Architecture
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Description
Interactive computer installation

"With the interactive video/computer environment, Body Scanned Architecture, presented at the Venice Biennale, Ruth Schnell explores a classic interface concept between real architecture (from the Hoffmann pavilion) and imaginary architecture, primarily based on virtual shaped elements by visionary architect Friedrich Kiesler.* A projection screen works as the interface between real space and cyberspace. A virtual camera moves helically over the virtual architecture landscape. The observer's body is captured by a video camera. Its image on the screen serves as a moving three-dimensional window through which the observer can get a glimpse of the imaginary architecture, which is grounded in absent space (atropia, utopia)."
- Ruth Schnell, quoting Peter Weibel in "Ruth Schnell oder der Körper als Schnittstelle zwischen realen und virtuellen Räumen [Ruth Schnell or the body as an interface between real and virtual spaces]"

*Friedrich Kiesler went into exile, while Josef Hoffmann, a sympathizer of Austro-Fascism, was honoured in Austria.
Keywords
  • genres
    • installations
      • interactive installations
  • technology
    • displays
      • electronic displays
        • projectors
    • hardware
      • video (analog)
Technology & Material
Hardware
Silicon Graphics onyx computer, video projector
Material
Opaque acrylic glass, live camera, video projector, mirror, Silicon Graphics onyx computer, Silicon Graphics Extreme 2
Software
Silicon Graphics Extreme 2
Bibliography