This workshop, conducted by MetaObjects, explores the diverse application of motion-capture technologies within digital and performance art and provides an introduction to capturing movements of the body using these tools. Participants will learn how to capture data using advanced motion-capture systems such as OptiTrack, and how to import and apply the motion data within 3D animation software such as Blender and real-time performance using 3D engines such as Unity.

MetaObjects is a Hong Kong and London-based studio founded by Andrew Crowe and Ashley Lee Wong that facilitates digital production with artists and cultural institutions. As an example of their work, MetaObjects, together with Shanghai artist Lu Yang, created a series of motion-capture performances, Electromagnetic Brainology Live that explores neurology, Buddhism, and the human body. By tracking the movements of a dancer live on stage, and mapping them to 3D avatars displayed on a screen, the artist and MetaObjects created a high-energy performance through anime and games aesthetics, Japanese dance music and hip-hop dance.

Schedule
Day 1: Sat, Nov 2: Pratt Institute, 12-3pm
Pratt Digital Arts, Digital Arts and Animation Gallery, 200 Willoughby Avenue, 4th Floor, Myrtle Hall, Brooklyn, NY, 11205

The first day will explore the evolution of motion-capture and its various uses and applications through examples of work. We will then run through the process of capturing data of a dancer using a motion-tracking system.

Day 2: Sun, Nov 3: Asia Art Archive in America, 12-4pm (snacks will be provided)
Ground Floor, 43 Remsen St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

On the second day, we move into the studio to import the data captured on the first day to explore how to apply the data to an avatar to create a 3D animation. Participants are requested to bring their own Mac or PC laptops and download the free software Blender and Unity in advance.

This workshop is open to participants of all levels; no prior experience required! Participants may sign-up for each day individually.

MetaObjects is a studio based in Hong Kong and London that aims to facilitate digital production with artists and cultural institutions. Working across VR, AR, 3D printing, motion-capture, audiovisual production, software and web development, MetaObjects seeks to encourage the sharing of knowledge of new digital tools and processes. MetaObjects has worked with artists including Samson Young, Lu Yang, Wang Xin, and Wong Kit Yi; and cultural institutions including M+ West Kowloon Cultural District, Tai Kwun Centre for Art and Heritage, K11 Art Foundation, de Sarthe Gallery, Asia Society Hong Kong, Para Site Art Centre, Rockbund Art Museum, University of Salford Art Collection, and others.

Andrew Crowe is Co-Founder and Technical Director of MetaObjects. He is a technologist and software engineer with over 15 years experience working in London. He has worked as Principal Developer for a financial company, start-ups and agencies. He applies his skills to work in close collaboration with partners to tackle a wide range of complex creative projects using new technologies.

Ashley Lee Wong is Co-Founder and Artistic Director of MetaObjects. She is a curator and researcher who has worked in the arts and cultural sector in London and Hong Kong. She is a PhD Candidate at the School of Creative Media, City University of Hong Kong. She has worked as Head of Programmes and Operations at Sedition, the online platform for artists to distribute their work as digital limited editions.

This program is supported by Pratt Institute, Centre for Applied Computing and Interactive Media at City University of Hong Kong., and, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council.