Ambient Intelligence on the Dance Floor

With the evolution of intelligent devices, sensors, and ambient intelligent systems, it is not surprising to see many research projects starting to explore the design of intelligent artifacts in the area of art and technology; these projects take the form of art exhibits, interactive performances, and multi-media installations. In this paper, we seek to propose a new architecture for an ambient intelligent dance performance space. Dance is an art form that seeks to explore the use of gesture and body as means of artistic expression. This paper proposes an extension to the medium of expression currently used in dance—we seek to explore the use of the dance environment itself, including the stage lighting and music, as a medium for artistic reflection and expression. To materialize this vision, the performance space will be augmented with several sensors: physiological sensors worn by the dancers, as well as pressure sensor mats installed on the floor to track dancers’ movements. Data from these sensors will be passed into a three layered architecture: a layer analyzes sensor data collected from physiological and pressure sensors. Another layer intelligently adapts the lighting and music to portray the dancer’s physiological state given artistic patterns authored through specifically developed tools; and, lastly, a layer for presenting the music and lighting changes in the physical dance environment. [Article copies are available for purchase from InfoSci-on-Demand.com]