Abstract
In this paper, I present an overview of personal and intimate technologies within a pedagogical context. I describe two courses that I have developed for Computation Arts at Concordia University: “Tangible Media and Physical Computing” and “Second Skin and Soft Wear.” Each course deals with different aspects of physical computing and tangible media in a Fine Arts context. In both courses, I introduce concepts of soft computation and intimate reactive artifacts as artworks. I emphasize the concept of memory (contrasting computer memory and personal, interpretive memory), and explore how responsive or interactive objects can create a new medium for annotating architectural space and objects, for leaving traces of presence, and for recording personal histories. At the core of this pedagogical practice is a strong emphasis on engaging a vulnerable, personal approach to working with electronics and physical computation. To contextualize the teaching practice, I begin by presenting some of my own research projects developed at Extra Soft Labs (also known as XS Labs), then segue into a detailed discussion of these two classes, and conclude with a discussion of some student work.
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The term electronic textiles usually refers to a textile substrate that incorporates capabilities for sensing (biometric or external), for communication (usually wireless), power transmission, or interconnection technology to allow sensors or things such as information processing devices to be networked together within a fabric. In my work, I try to stay quite close to the history and the reality of fibers and textiles. I work with traditional textile techniques and technologies such as weaving, knitting, sewing, embroidery, quilting, etc. to create textiles that can sense, transmit power or data, and change state (such as the “electric plaid” technology for addressable color-change fabrics I developed at IFM).
References
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Berzowska, J. Personal technologies: memory and intimacy through physical computing. AI & Soc 20, 446–461 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00146-006-0033-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00146-006-0033-x