eroto-system, 22-minute performance and interactive installation, 2024
as part of “Embodiments,” the DANM MFA exhibition at Digital Arts Research Center, UC Santa Cruz
eroto-system imagines a future technology capable of absorbing erotic charge and converting it into a renewable source of energy. The live performance entails a guided demonstration of the two interactive components of the installation which are activated specifically through the bodies of audience members.
Audience members participating in the demonstration section of the performance.
The eroto-system staff member demonstrates the Charging Station, one of two interactive elements in the installation. The Charging Station was modeled after EV charging station structures and contains two webcams in the pyramid on top. When these webcams register human faces, the vibrating charging plugs are activated for 5 seconds. Visitors to the installation typically used these vibrating charging plugs like massage guns on various parts of their bodies.
The eroto-system staff member demonstrates the Pumping Station, one of two interactive elements in the installation. The Pumping Station is a 13x11 ft structure covered in Mylar with UV LED light strips running horizontally across. There are 4 “receivers” mounted to the structure which are circular panels of laser-cut mirrored acrylic with pieces of fabric-wrapped foam attached the center of each. Underneath the foam pieces are contact mics which respond to physical touch. Each receiver triggers a specific tonal frequency when pressure is applied. The four-channel sound installation