dandelion clock, 2009
digital projection, dimensions variable
interactive demo
dandelion clock is a 4D+ interactive projection that explores the spatial and temporal qualities of natural spaces. in this work, dandelion pappi, the little white parachutes that carry the dandelion's seeds, move about the room and rely on feedback loops and emergent systems as they float through space and interact with the viewer.
the system simulation is calculated with Craig Reynolds' flocking algorithm (implemented for processing by Daniel Shiffman) and a Navier-Stokes equations for fluid dynamics (implemented by Mehmet Akten). in this agent based system, the agents (or boids—in this case, the pappi) are governed by two competing sets of behaviors: one is to move as a flock about their virtual 3D space maintaining their alignment, cohesion, and separation with others clocks; and the other is to respond to viewers' movement, the motion of which is determined by a fluid simulator.