Background

Although the computer is composed of two entities, processing system and display device, people are just aware of what is actually being displayed. Indeed, the diverse inputs such as from keyboard, mouse, or even the different messages from the underlying computational system are simply transformed to a simplest element, the display. Therefore, the main and only concern about the computer is fully concentrated on what information is being displayed on a screen, and especially only the action of "seeing" is attached to the whole computer. However, is "seeing" enough for such complexity that lies within the notion of computer, and aren't we lacking any other sense for our interaction with the computer?

Besides this particular interaction of "seeing", I feel that there is a lack of an intimate touch. How about to create an intimate communication between a person and the screen image? Further extending this subject matter, can this additional "touching" sense be more natural? Natural as the computer itself can be considered as the living elements in the nature.

Abstract

From a convergence of two different ideas of adding an additional sense and of displaying this sense in a very organic way, the theme of my piece will be about displaying and interacting with a virtual, but organic, plant.

From nursing this virtual organic plant, the flat mechanic monitor will be perceived as an intimate friend to the user, and the user will be able to sense the effect of his or her affectionate touch visually.

Description

My main display first start with an empty applet, symbolizing an empty vase. As if a seed can be cultivated with human touch, clicking on it will start his growth. As a person strokes (mouse drag) its trunks and leaves, the plant grows and follows his touching. All different movements that have to do with the growing process are as smooth as an organism.