3D-printed sculptures with data-driven forms created with EMG measurements of facial expressions
Artwork

Manifest

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.

Surface Design Journal

…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…

ACRE Projects
SÍM Artist Residency
Beall Center for Art + Technology
Occurence Gallery
Currents New Media Festival