Materializing The Intangible explores the intersection of art, technology, and human experience by transforming intangible human qualities into tangible, immersive interactions. Through sensory engagement, this body of work emphasizes the subtle, transient dynamics that shape our relationships and sense of presence, inviting viewers to reflect on the often-overlooked beauty in daily life.
Project Info
Duration: 6 Months Focus: Sensory Experience Design, Tangible Interfaces, Embodied Interactions Context: MFA Design Thesis Featured:2024 San Francisco Design Week
1. Turbulent Talks
Rooted in the Farsi word "Hamdam" (همدم), which combines "Ham" (meaning "together") and "Dam" (meaning "breath"), the term refers to someone with whom we share air and life. It goes beyond its literal translation of "companion" to signify a deep, almost sacred connection formed through the act of breathing together. This concept serves as the foundation for the project, emphasizing the intimate and invisible ways breath connects us to others and the spaces we inhabit.
Turbulent Talks brings this concept to life through the visualization of an intense conversation. The air between a couple, rendered visible through the dynamic movement of fans and streamers, shows the tangible effect of words on shared spaces and relationships. This piece highlights the invisible but palpable energy created in moments of heightened communication.
Using TouchDesigner to map the conversation and send the signal to an Arduino in real time to control the fans.
2. Whispers In The Mist
Continuing the exploration of "Hamdam," Whispers In The Mist captures the subtlety of intimate conversations. Using mist as a medium, this installation gives form to the gentle exchanges that define our closest relationships. The fleeting quality of the mist serves as a metaphor for the transient nature of these delicate moments of connection, inviting viewers to reflect on the ephemeral beauty of whispered words.
Using TouchDesigner to map the conversation and send the signal to 2 Arduino Nanos in real time to control the mist makers.
Captive exhibition at FourOneNine Gallery during the 2024 San Francisco Design Week.
3. Breathing Machine
With Breathing Machine, the focus shifts to a more direct embodiment of breath. This installation simulates the physicality of breathing through two computer fans and a plastic bag, which inflate and deflate in sync with human breath, controlled by an Arduino. The machine's creaking and rhythmic movements evoke an eerie lifelikeness, transforming simple materials into a resonant reminder of the unseen mechanisms sustaining our lives.
4. Touch of Presence
Touch of Presence moves from air to touch, blending the physical and the poetic. Through the use of Thermochromic ink, hidden verses of Rumi's poetry are revealed when viewers place their hand on the paper, using body heat to uncover the words. This fleeting interaction underscores the temporary and intimate nature of human presence, emphasizing how connection—both physical and emotional—leaves a mark that is momentarily visible.
Experimenting with the Thermochromic ink.
5. Reflective Pause
Concluding the series is Reflective Pause, an interactive piece that reimagines the act of reflection—both literal and metaphorical. Drawing inspiration from the historical role of mirrors in self-awareness, this installation uses vibration motors to blur the viewer's reflection, clearing only when they commit to a moment of stillness and focus. The piece serves as a commentary on the cluttered state of modern life, reminding us that true introspection requires intentional presence and clarity.
Experimenting with different vibration motors and mirrors.