Team of Transmute Collective: Intimate Transactions 2005-8

Tactile Multi-User Virtual Reality

Intimate Transactions (created by the Transmute Collective) is an exciting new form of interactive installation that allows two people in separate spaces to interact simultaneously using their bodies. Each participant uses a physical interface called a 'Bodyshelf.' By gently moving their bodies on this 'smart furniture' they instigate 'Intimate Transactions,' which influence an evolving 'world' created from digital imagery, multichannel sound and tactile feedback. This shared experience allows each participant to gradually develop a form of sensory intimacy with the other, despite the fact that they are geographically separated and cannot physically see or hear each other. Hence the work focuses participants upon understanding influences and relationships within the work's ecologies.

Project development has been generously supported by AC ID, QUT Creative Industries, Arts Queensland and the Australia Council For the Arts

The Transmute Collective was formed in 1998 and is based in Queensland, Australia. The three core members are Dr. Keith Armstrong (artistic director/new media visual design), Lisa O'Neill (performance director) and Guy Webster (sound director). Each are celebrated artists in their own right, and have mature, different and yet highly complementary skills. Transmute has developed and presented numerous ambitious, large-scale new media projects that have been shown widely throughout Australia and overseas, having also pioneered international dual-site performances and installation works between Brisbane and the UK. To achieve this they have worked with many different collaborators including engineers, ecological scientists, human
movement scientists, furniture designers and software designers. The works each reflect the collective member's core skills and emphasise the moving/performing body, a deep exploration of real and virtual space and new forms of body-activated interactivity.

More info:
http://www.embodiedmedia.com/#/page/intimate-transactions