Lets Do Lunch!
Keywords
MPM33, Telepresence, Telematic, iChat, Webcam, Lunch
Lets Do Lunch from AJ P. on Vimeo.
Artist Statement
Imagine being unable to see with a friend, family or loved one for days, weeks or even months. What if there was a way to keep in touch with those people; from grabbing a coffee, or lunch? With this project, we hope to create an experience in which allows people to fulfill their needs for another person by replacing their physical presence with a virtual subsistence. Whether or not those needs are fulfilled through this telematic experience is the uncertainty surrounding this piece.
Synopsis
The main focus of this piece is to take two computers and create an experience using video peer to peer in separate locations. It is based on the uses of the iChat program allowing two or more people to virtually communicate through a computer. The piece is presented with two tables in different areas identically set up and positioned to create an illusion of being at the same table and eating lunch together. ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ is intended to give the users a telematic experience by fulfilling their needs for another person by replacing their physical presence with a virtual subsistence.
User Experience
A user is placed at their respective computers in two different locations (i.e. different rooms, buildings or cities) the users start to experience a relationship with the user on the other end, exchanging conversation as if there was no distance between them. Food a general comforting tool, allows for a more relaxed experience and spark conversation, as would anyone having lunch. This telematic experience is meant to break the barriers around long distances, bringing together friends and family separated by physical distances.
References / Inspiration
Annie Abrahams’ The Big Kiss
http://turbulence.org/blog/2008/10/08/live-stage-the-big-kiss-brooklyn/
Nima Motamedi’s Keep in Touch
http://turbulence.org/blog/2008/08/07/keep-in-touch-a-tactile-vision-intimate-interface/
Technical Summary:
HARDWARE: 2 x Mac Books – Webcam capability.
SOFTWARE: iChat on both laptops
A strong wireless connection is strongly necessary to provide a strong and constant connection between both locations.
PROPS: To increase experience props found at a traditional lunch table was used. Food was also placed (use can vary if users have their own food).
Contact Info:
Ajayen Paramalingam - Project Coordinator
Image Arts - New Media
Bachelors of Fine Arts, Ryerson University
e: ajayen.p@gmail.com
Rebecca Matteliano – Project Coordinator
Image Arts - New Media
Bachelors of Fine Arts, Ryerson University
e: rmatteliano@rogers.ca
