3D Digital Animation, Video Installation, Neuroscience and Visualizing Brain Data on Emotions
Discrete Terrain: Windows on Five Emotions (mockup)
2007
Three-channel digital video installation
5 min 29 sec, with sound, dimensions approx 6ft high x 18ft wide
This work invites the viewer to the inner world of twelve individuals who participated in a study on the brain basis of emotions. The artist created animations in which shape, movement, and sound of a 3D plane are based on the EEG (electroencephalogram) data of the subjects during five emotional states (anger, joy, fear, sadness, and disgust). The working idea was to make inner subjective states visible as external topography, experienced by the viewer as a journey through otherworldly terrain. Each emotion is visualized in the above order at approximately eight second intervals. Data by Dr. James Coan, Affective Neuroscience Laboratory, University of Virginia. Sound by Manly Romero.
Interview by WICN 90.5FM Inquiry host Mark Lynch. Eva Lee and Dr. James Coan discuss the making of and inspiration for Discrete Terrain: Windows on Five Emotion, a multi-channel digital video installation exhibited at The DeCordova Museum. Listen here
Made possible in part by the support of The MacDowell Colony.
