Data Visualizations...

visual complexity

I guess the big thing right now (and I can't tell whether it's fading in or out of the picture) is data visualization. Web 2.0 has popularized the attitude of fully sensationalizing online expressions. Perhaps if people are made to emote, they'll connect better with the information at hand. This is a fantastic way of approaching Web interactions.

Data visualization creates some fantastic webs of information through processing - many of which are visually stunning. I'm uncertain, though, whether they facilitate the narrative. If I had to guess, this trend is one iteration of a point which will continue to develop further. Now that we've broken out of the web grid (is that redundant?), we can find a mode of expression which is both visually compelling, tactile and also informative.

Moon Theater - Public Physical Interactions

Moon Theater from Nova Jiang on Vimeo.

Nova Jiang's Moon Theater is a really fun and tactile exploration of Interaction Design. It also looks at how people can explore an interface together to create a fun and artistic reaction.

I always enjoy interactions that can be equally enjoyable for both children and adults...chances are if a kid has fun playing, so will a child of the...older variety. This is another reason why I find this field so exciting - it balances sophisticated media with basic communication strategies.

All the Moon Theater really does is activate flash movies according to sensors, which detect the shadow puppeteers behind the screen. Watch the video to see what I mean. Anyhoo...despite the fact that this code seems relatively uncomplicated, the execution is so clever and creates such wonder in the audience that a fantastic interaction comes to life.

Fraking Jonathan Harris

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Well, I'm sure you're all skipping over this post and nodding your heads in recognition. Yes. Everyone agrees that Jonathan Harris is just fraking amazing. Damn it.

If you haven't familiarized yourself with his work, have fun exploring. Harris' most popular work is We Feel Fine but The Whale Hunt and Universe will also blow your mind.

By uniting magical java processing and tactile, intuitive designs, Harris continually amazes interaction lookieloos. His work is living proof of the powerful bond between science and design (or art?).

Design and the Elastic Mind - MOMA

Design and the Elastic Mind

The online exhibition for MOMA's Design and the Elastic Mind show is one site that I don't mind getting lost in. The interface behaves like a smart little sidekick - following your every move - but it never lets you get too lost. The design lands somewhere between an experimental data visualization (as it catalogues hundreds of design achievements) and a multi-linear interface. Smart preview bubbles save you the trouble of clicking through data in a single path. Instead, the interface indulges your web ADHD by giving you the freedom to skim the surface without letting this sea of information become too overwhelming. Helpful arrows and paths keep a sense of direction for you.

Hypercities

Hypercities

Hypercities is just one example of the way mapping has been transformed by new media. By adding a digitally interactive component, it's almost as if maps are returning to their original state - as more than just visual aids, maps have become the tool with which to plot itineraries and share information (again).

Nice to meet you!

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