Projection Mapping and Dance

Projection mapping is the term used to describe the use of projectors on usually non-flat spaces, or irregularly shaped objects, that one does not usually associate (effectively) using a projector on. The reason for casting a two-dimensional image, on a surface which may pose difficulties, is for the purpose of transforming the space that the light is casted on. In popular culture, projection mapping has been used by hobbyists for Halloween house displays, as well as Amon Tobin during his ISAM tour and cube installation, and Kanye West as Yeezus promotion. This technology has also been used by artists, to display dynamic imagery to perform with. However, while visually impressive, projection mapping technically meant only the playback of a pre-rendered image or video on to a surface. Performance artists were confined by tight choreography. The magic of projection mapping onto or around a person only worked with precise timing. The dance world has broken through this barrier through introducing camera and body tracking technology. Projected images can now be rendered on the fly, using the data from camera. Dancers, rather than pretending to interact with the projected world, can actually shape it through their movements. The effect can be to give the dancers a stronger sense of relational being.

Chunky Move (Australia): “Glow” and “Mortal Engine”