Statement of Purpose]]>
I am investigating alternative modes of representation for human avatars in web-based applications and virtual experiences in order to create a new kind of simulation that explores universal links between the mind, language, emotion, and mass consciousness. View project site
Ian Spangler, Candidate for MFA Design & Technology, May 2007
Instructors: Stephanie Owens, Ted Byfield, Louisa Campbell
EMAIL: iaspangler@yahoo.com]]>
CONTEXT (Fall '06)]]>
In an age of vacuous online experiences featuring human avatar simulations that function as mere "puppets" designed to mirror a user's intentions and outward appearance, this thesis represents an investigation into new possibilities and deeper meanings that can be imbedded within alternative modes of representation and user-avatar relationships.
References]]>
PRECEDENTS (Fall '06)]]>
FULL-MOTION VIDEO GAMES ("INTERACTIVE MOVIES"):
Beginning with Dragon's Lair in 1983, this genre of game-making involved the use of pre-rendered, TV-quality live-action or cartoon video sequences to present stories with limited player interaction. Learn More
THE VIDEOAVATAR LIBRARY:
An early open-source system developed for incorporating pre-made video avatars into a networked virtual reality application. Spawned many projects at the Electronic Visualization Laboratory (EVL). Learn more]]>
THE VIVID GROUP VIRTUAL REALITY GAMES:
Player can insert himself into a game simulation and play in real-time through patented gesture tracking software. The games are limited to special venues where a blue screen environment can be set up to transform users into video-based avatars.
Learn more
More Precedents >>]]>