Face-tracking installation

triadisches ballett

Inspired by Oskar Schlemmer's groundbreaking work, this face-tracking installation with a series of animations is a tribute to the avant-garde masterpiece Triadic Ballet. Originally conceived in 1922, Schlemmer's ballet explored the intersection of geometry, color, and human movement, embodying the spirit of the Bauhaus school.

This digital reinterpretation blends 3D animation of ballerinas, audio-reactive visuals, and contemporary music to reimagine each act. The animations capture the unique mood and structure of the ballet’s three acts, introducing a dynamic interplay between sound and visuals. While this project serves as an exploration of TouchDesigner techniques, it is also a homage to Schlemmer’s vision of art as a synthesis of form, motion, and abstraction. With music by Burnt Friedman, the animations stand as a digital ballet—distinct and self-contained.

The original Triadic Ballet was structured around the principle of trinity: three acts, three participants (two male, one female), 12 dances, and 18 costumes. This project reimagines three ballerinas from each act as audio-reactive, animated 3D models, each positioned within a stage that reflects their act's distinctive color palette.

The installation tracks the viewer's face, adjusting the camera's perspective to allow movement through the digital space, passing by all the ballerinas. While the initial concept was designed for a screen equipped with a camera, a projector was used for demonstration purposes.

Face-tracking

touchdesigner patch

  • Audio-Reactive System: Visual elements dynamically respond to sound, creating a synchronized experience.

  • Face-Tracking Module: Tracks viewer movements to adjust camera position in real time, enhancing interactivity.

  • 3D Geometry Setup for Ballerinas: Features simple modeling of body part shapes, instancing, and audio-reactive material coloring.

  • Stage Setup and Grids: Incorporates a stage design with audio-reactive grids, adding depth and movement to the overall composition.