Galactic Dreamscape [2024]
Note: This artwork generated by Stable Diffusion.
Space has always captured our imagination and inspired us to dream beyond Earth. This fascination with the universe has sparked countless artistic creations, each attempting to bring the wonders of the universe to us. For my senior project, I developed a unique art installation that blends space exploration, human movement, and cutting-edge technology to create an immersive experience.
The inspiration for this project comes from two main sources: NASA's space missions and the graceful movements of astronauts in zero gravity. The NASA Hubble Space Telescope and James Webb Space Telescope have provided breathtaking images of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters that offer a glimpse into the vast beauty of the universe. These cosmic vistas serve as the backdrop for the installation, creating a realistic dreamscape that transports viewers to the far reaches of space. At the same time, the project draws inspiration from the fluid motions of astronauts as they float weightlessly in space. Their smooth, almost dance-like movements stand in stark contrast to our everyday experiences on Earth. By incorporating these elements, the installation aims to give viewers a taste of what it might feel like to move freely in a zero-gravity environment.
The personal motivation for this project comes from a desire to push the boundaries of technology in art. Experimenting with Stable Diffusion, a powerful AI tool for generating images, allows for the exploration of new artistic possibilities. By applying data-driven approaches to the creative process, the project seeks to blend the precision of technology with the emotional impact of art.
This project also reflects my fascination with space and the cosmos. It's an opportunity for me to delve deeper into these themes, using art as a medium to express the awe and wonder that the universe inspires. Through this installation, I hope to create an immersive experience that not only captivates viewers but also educates them about the realities of dreamscape travel and astronaut movement.
This artwork draws on several influential work in the field of technology-driven art. Memo Akten's work "Learning to see: We are made of star dust" demonstrates how artificial intelligence and machine learning can transform live video in real time to create visually impressive effects. This technique of using neural networks to process images in real time inspired the project's approach to creating dynamic, resonsive visuals. Second, teamLab's "Universe of Water Particles under Satellite's Gravity" offers insights into how 3D modeling and particle systems can be used to create interactive installations. By simulating the effects of gravity on water particles, teamLab has created a work that blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern technology. This fusion of old and new serves as an example of how space-themed art can bridge different cultural and technological spheres. Third, Tomas Saraceno's "The politics of solar rhythms: Cosmic Levitation" provides a unique perspective on how sound can be used to manipulate physical objects, mimicking the formation of planets from cosmic dust. This integration of scientific principles into art has influenced the current project's aim to make abstract space concepts more tangible and relatable to viewers.
Below is a 10-week timeline. Only certain task progress is visible: Task 2.1, Task 3.2, Task 3.3, Task 4.1, Task 5.3, and Task 6.1.
Week 1
Task 1.1
Finalize project proposal
Task 1.2
Install TouchDesigner, Stable Diffusion, Sonic Pi, and Leap Motion
Week 2
Task 2.1
Learn TouchDesigner basic (tutorial, practice projects)
Task 2.2
Find and download relevant NASA dataset
Task 2.3
Refine and detail the project timeline
Week 3
Task 3.1
Continue learning advanced TouchDesigner techniques (particle effects and fluid simulation)
Task 3.2
Clean and preprocessing NASA dataset for integration
Task 3.3
Research three relevant interactive art installation for inspiration
Week 4
Task 4.1
Begin drafting the project framework in TouchDesigner
Task 4.2
Start building the project website to document progress
Week 5
Task 5.1
Present project progress
Task 5.2
Update the project proposal
Task 5.3
Experiment with initial visual element using NASA data
Task 5.4
Develop the final workflow design in TouchDesigner, detailing how each component connects and interacts.
Week 6
Task 6.1
Fill out Exhibition List with my project information
Task 6.2
Implement Leap Motion integration for tracking human movement
Task 6.3
Develop basic interactive component (particle effects reacting to movement)
Week 7 & 8
Task 7-8.1
Start integrating cleaned NASA datasets into the project
Task 7-8.2
Refine interactive elements based on testing and feedback
Task 7-8.3
Continue integrating and testing NASA data within the visual elements
Week 9
Task 9.1
Finalize all visual and interactive elements
Task 9.2
Prepare final presentation materials
🎉 Week 10
Task 10.1
Complete the project website with documentation
Task 10.2
Setup the installation
Task 10.3
Deliver final presentation
The project begins with a careful selection of 120 NASA images covering three categories: galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. These images were chosen for their color, composition, and unique features that enhance their visual appeal.
The core of the installation uses StreamDiffusionTD to create real-time img2img transformations. This process generates evolving dreamscapes, transforming the NASA images into surreal and imaginative versions of world. The system cycles through the image database every minute, ensuring a constantly evolving visual experience. To add variety, 27 different prompts are used, switching randomly every 30 seconds. The seed for StreamDiffusionTD changes each second, resulting in smooth transitions between states.
Participant interaction is a key element of the installation. Leap Motion tracks human body movements, translating gestures and poses into visual data. This data then influences particle simulations and fluid dynamics within the projected image, creating a responsive and interactive experience. In zero gravity, the astronauts move with smooth, fluid motions due to the lack of gravity, which normally creates drag. Their movements are a delicate balance between controlled motion and inertia, allowing them to glide effortlessly through space. In this art installation, when Leap Motion detects an active gesture, the system simulates the dynamic motion of the astronauts deliberately applying force. This causes the particles to move faster and with more energy, representing intentional behavior in space. Conversely, when no gestures are detected, the particles move very slowly, mimicking the stillness experienced by astronauts when they are not moving, reflecting the calm and weightless nature of zero gravity. The interplay between fast and slow movements mimics the real-world space environment, emphasizing both active and passive states of motion. The final output is projected onto a 12 by 10 foot wall in the Kamil Gallery at UC San Diego. This large-scale display immerses viewers in a dynamic, interactive representation of space, blending real NASA imagery with artistic interpretation and human interaction
Galactic Dreamscape Gallery Walkthrough
The driving force behind this work is the desire to change people's perception of space and the possibility of living beyond Earth. By creating an immersive experience, the installation aims to create a deeper emotional and intellectual connection between the viewer and the concept of space habitation. This is to make the seemingly distant and abstract idea of living in space more real and feasible. In addition, the project highlights the potential of art and technology to shape our understanding and approach to space exploration. By combining dynamic visuals and interactive elements, the installation serves as a bridge between scientific knowledge and public engagement.
Prompt:
alien creature in bioluminescent alien forest, fireflies glowing like distant stars, photorealistic detail, vivid colors