Computing Analogue Interactive Installations

This paper documents the development and application of a set of computational tools and fabrication methods to support and facilitate the design, simulation and realization of 3D Moiré Animation installations. Setting-out from the technique of traditional 2D Moiré Animations, the authors developed tools to examine a novel approach which combines the depth of field and motion of the spectator to achieve large-scale, analogue animations in three dimensions. Furthermore, the authors suggest that large scale outcomes can enhance the way people interact with outdoor spaces. For that hypothesis the particular paper illustrates the application of the tools for the realization of two large-scale interactive analogue motion graphic installations; a memorial and a temporary centrepiece for a dance festival in Cyprus. The tools operate as a free plugin for Grasshopper 3D and can be downloaded.