Six-forty by four-eighty

Abstract

In this paper we describe the development of Six-Forty by Four-Eighty: an art and design installation composed of 220 interactive lighting tiles. We discuss previous work that addresses the physicality of computation, our design and fabrication processes, technical implementation, the development of a novel technique for data transmission through the body, the piece's exhibition context and public response. By describing the interrelationship between these elements we hope to shed light into the forging of a post-industrial design practice that straddles the art, design and technology trichotomy.