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NAAMYAATI MACHINE
Naamyaati machine is a device that allows one to use their hand gestures to manipulate a visual.
I intended to design an interactive object that allows one to manipulate a visual using hand gestures. My primary aim was to enable the audience to experience a future where crafting beings and materials from advanced realms will be as effortless as a mere gesture of one’s hands.
PROCESS
Max and Touchdesigner patch, Naamyaati Machine, 2023
Configuration
Naamyaati Machine is an audiovisual experience consisting of a cube (modulator) and an input keyboard placed on a pedestal, ultimately connected to a display screen/projector.
Configuration Sketch, Naamyaati Machine, 2023
Two ultrasonic sensors are housed within this box and connected to an Arduino board.
The Arduino Uno is programmed to interface with proximity sensors (HC-SR04), which gauge the distance from the sensor to any object positioned in front of it. These measurements serve as data for subsequent processing.
Exposed electronics, Naamyaati Machine, 2023
These values are then transmitted to TouchDesigner from Max through a serial port. Touchdesigner patch is designed to generate a visual output.
Programming
Data from the gestures is transmitted simultaneously to a MaxPatch for audio output and Touchdesigner for visual output.
I designed a custom Max patch that receives input from the sensors, scales it, and utilizes these values to modulate various filters on an audio file.
Concept
Naamyaati is an Urdu word that means “organic matter.” It is a machine that talks to organic(human) systems.
In a future where machines are becoming more fluid, flexible, and powerful, this machine is a tool that transforms the fundamental nature of human biology—transcending the human form to an elevated transhuman state.
The input from hand gestures alters the visuals in real-time, while the button inputs on the machine allow you to cycle through four stages that represent the evolution of organic matter after merging with intelligent machines.
Naamyaati Machine, Boston Cyberarts Gallery, 2023
Exhibits
Naamyaati Machine has been a part of several exhibitions, shows, and performances.
The Naamyaati Machine was first set up for the Fresh Media show at the Boston Cyberarts Gallery in 2023. The ultimate goal was to provoke thought, ignite curiosity, and inspire contemplation on the boundless possibilities that lie ahead in the evolving landscape of human-machine fusion.
The input from hand gestures alters the visuals in real-time, while the button inputs on the machine allow you to cycle through four stages that represent the evolution of organic matter after merging with intelligent machines.
Naamyaati Machine, Boston Cyberarts Gallery
Naamyaati Machine, Godine Gallery
The second time, it was part of my solo show, Material Nature, at the Godine Gallery. We decided to project it on a large wall rather than a small screen. The scale of the visuals significantly impacted the show's overall mood.
Project Documentation
Naamyaati Machine, Massart x Sowa gallery
Another notable occasion was at the MassartxSoWa gallery during the Design Biennial 2024. This exhibition attracted a substantial audience, providing me with valuable feedback from individuals of various ages.