SURFACE is a kinetic audiovisual installation series that synthesizes material and sound into digital images through human presence. The work translates physical interaction and acoustic feedback into a generative three-dimensional topography.

The project evolved from optical tracking to direct tactile engagement. The first iteration utilized a Kinect sensor to map human presence, processing bodily movement to generate a responsive digital landscape. SURFACE II, curated by Lily McLeish and presented at the Collumina Light Art Project 2025 alongside the theatre performance Ghost in the Machine, eliminated the camera entirely. A reverb plate sculpture operates as the central interface. TouchDesigner software triggers dadamachines to strike the metal. LOM Geofon microphones capture these physical impacts, while contact speakers feed the audio signals back into the plate to generate a continuous acoustic feedback loop. The resulting sound frequencies render a visual topography. The audience interacts by physically repositioning the microphones across the plate. This tactile intervention alters the feedback parameters to create immediate variations in the audiovisual environment.

The first iteration was realized with support from Stiftung Kunstfonds and NEUSTART KULTUR.

• Installation: Navid Razavi

• Direction: Lily McLeish

• Choreography: Lena Visser

• Text adaptation: Lily McLeish, Carol Laidler

• Performers: Hannah Marie Bahlo, Viona Canoska, Maximilian Sassinek

COLLUMINA project space

Ghost in the Machine at Schauspielschule DER KELLER

See also: SURFACE