Human Input Devices with TouchDesigner

Stanislav Glazov together with Valentin Tszin the famous butoh dancer, demonstrates the various techniques and research developments that utilize the human body as an input device for music and visual performance. We explore how different sensing technologies, such as depth cameras (Kinect, Leap Motion), sensors and a computer vision, can be used to transform body movement into sound and visuals.

We have the opportunity to use our main research platform, TouchDesigner, to experiment with these new techniques and see how they can be applied in a real-world setting.

Part I - Sound

Starting with simple ideas like the Body Theremin, we will gradually move towards more complex movement interpretations.

We will analyze factors such as movement intensity and distance from various obstacles to create new and innovative ways to produce music.

Part II - Visuals

Part III - Performance Techniques

Performance as performance - body practice for performance artists

Performance is a form of art that is gaining popularity all over the world. It involves the use of the body as a medium of expression, and enables the artist to communicate a wide range of ideas and emotions to the audience. Performance artists engage in rigorous body practice to perfect their art, and create performances that are both visually stunning and conceptually rich.

The practice of performance has a long and storied history, with roots in ancient cultures around the world. In many traditional societies, performance was an integral part of religious ceremonies, and was used to communicate with the gods and spirits. In more recent times, performance art has been associated with avant-garde movements in the visual arts, and has been used to challenge conventions and push boundaries.

Despite its popularity, performance art remains a challenging and demanding form of expression. Performance artists must be willing to push themselves physically and mentally, and must be willing to take risks in order to create truly impactful work. Nevertheless, for those who are willing to put in the work, performance art offers a rich and rewarding means of creative expression.

By the end of the workshop, attendees will have gained a comprehensive understanding of the potential of using the human body as an input device for music production, as well as gained practical experience working with cutting-edge technology.