2015
laser sintered polyamide nylon
8 H × 4.75 W × 4.75 D in (20.32 H × 12.07 W × 12.07 D cm) each
Titles in series: Blink Twice, Swallow, Squint, Frown, Furrow, Smile
“Manifest” is a series of data-driven sculptures based on EMG (electromyogram) readings of fluctuating levels of electricity in muscles. Neuromuscular activities associated with experiences of wonder were performed as facial expressions and bodily movements (smiling in delight, blinking in disbelief, frowning in confusion). Each activity produced unique data captured by an EMG sensor that was translated into a curve using custom software. Each curve serves as a profile for a different 3D-printed sculpture. The project examines the potential for objects to embody human experience and to materialize the intangible.
“Manifest” is a series of data-driven sculptures based on EMG (electromyogram) readings of fluctuating levels of electricity in muscles. Neuromuscular activities associated with experiences of wonder were performed as facial expressions and bodily movements (smiling in delight, blinking in disbelief, frowning in confusion). Each activity produced unique data captured by an EMG sensor that was translated into a curve using custom software. Each curve serves as a profile for a different 3D-printed sculpture. The project examines the potential for objects to embody human experience and to materialize the intangible.
…The exigent urgency of Laura Splan’s conceptual work always feels one step ahead of us, much the way technology, which she employs to execute and symbolically illuminate her concepts, exists long before it is grasped by the masses…
Project Support provided by ACRE Residency, SIM Residency
Production Assistance: Shongololo
Exhibitions: Beall Center for Art + Technology, Occurrence Gallery, NYU Langone Medical Center Art Gallery, Capsule Gallery, ACRE Projects, Grizzly Grizzly, Currents New Media Festival
interview and artist profile by Brenda Cruz-Wolf for 2019 solo exhibition at Capsule Gallery
