Process
1. The interview:
“Describe an important memory of a moment that affected your life.”
We asked people to talk about strong memories they had from times in their lives that in hindsight ended up being very important. Strong memories might not be vivid, they could be fuzzy even though they affected the person deeply. Each memory was recorded as one data set. Some people’s memories were concise, lasting only a few sentences. Some people were able to describe the memory in great detail, talking for several minutes.
2. The analysis:
Then the recordings were analyzed along ten different parameters using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count(LIWC) software.
3. The generative 3d shape:
After experimenting with several methods for using the data to generate a shape, we settled on the following process. We would start with a torus as a base shape. Then the LIWC parameters were mapped onto various parameters of the torus, such as complexity, diameters, length and height of mesh units, subdivisions, symmetries, etc. This produced the complex shapes that reflect the speaker’s individual vocalizations. The complex shape recalls both a negative space and a neural network.
4. 3d print the model
Final 3d printed solid shape for molding
5. Cast the outer form (work in progress):
We cast the 3d printed model in a silicon mold to make a negative inner shape and the outer bounding box with a translucent material and finalize.
In contrast to the inner complexity, the outer form is a simpler container. We chose to make the geometry more generic as a way to juxtapose individuality with commonalities that we all share. The bounding box represents the universal elements of human experience. The rectilinear modularity and uniform scale signifies the impossibility of comparing the value or scale of different lives.