Submergence transforms physical space into a Mixed Reality environment where virtual and real worlds coincide. The result is an immersive walkthrough experience that uses light to alter our perceptions of space and presence.

The experience is akin to walking through an abstract virtual environment, where pixels on a screen are replaced by thousands of points of light floating in space. These points of light create evocations and atmospheres, presence and movement, in physical space.

Submergence is a new project that continues Squidsoup’s explorations into placing digital media in physical space, blurring boundaries between what is real and what is computer generated by creating responsive, immersive and dynamic hybrid installation environments.

The piece uses 8,064 points of LED light suspended in a physical walkthrough space. The first installation measures 8m x 4m and 4m high.

The piece is divided into four sections.
1. Lanterns. Very slowly moving orbs of light inhabit the space, suspended in mid air. Approach them however and they move away.

2. Divided Space creates two volumes of negative space, divided by a moving plane. When entered, the divisions dissolve, leaving a trail of illuminated space wherever you are.

3. Swarm - the space is filled with beings that are attracted by your presence. With more than one person in the space, they are no longer sure where to go, and often change their mind about who they wish to be near.

4. Ecstatic is pure experience – feel the light as it intensifies.

Submergence is the culmination of Ocean of Light, a five year research project exploring interactive media experiences that occupy physical space, and looking at the relationships between immersion and interaction.

Short video showing how the project was installed: vimeo.com/60731077

squidsoup.org/submergence

Submergence is a Squidsoup project by Anthony Rowe, Gaz Bushell, Chris Bennewith, Liam Birtles and Ollie Bown