In-Class Project Discussion Sept. 22

Plan A: Verbot (robot that moves in different directions in response to audio commands)
We would program the Verbot to take motion in response to music (change direction in response to different notes on a recorder). The Verbot will be holding a mark making device (marker, charcoal, paint pen, paint-filled roller, etc.) and will draw on staff paper. The Verbot would draw on the floor, not the wall.
Should it be an abstract song created from a specific drawing or an abstract drawing created from a specific song or both? If specific drawing then what? Could be wavelength, music sheet, etc. If specific song, then what song?
Should we disguise the Verbot? If we don't it will be received as a critique on technology. If we disguise the Verbot, how should we go about it?

Plan B: Cameras that take pictures in response to sound
Could mount camera on a hiking path and document the hikers that create noise as they walk by. Do we need to hide or disguise camera? Aside from the choice of disguise affecting the concept, the camera could possibly get stolen if we don't.
Could set up in the FAD stairwell.
Could attach camera to a vehicle that will travel around and take pictures of the surrounding environment in response to the sounds of that environment. This would create a map of this place by visual documentation of the sounds. Should we show the marked path on an actual map of the vehicle? Might be too much noise pollution for the camera to work.
We could set up a scenario on campus in which there will be a sign that says "Don't ring this bell", or something to that effect. If an audience member rings the bell, the camera will take pictures in response to the ring. Favorable because it is an interactive piece.

Plan C: Hexbug (miniature robotic insects that change direction of motion in response to noise and touch)
Could attach mark-making device to many Hexbugs and release them in a confined environment. The Hexbugs will continually run away from each other. This can be seen as a critique on our society (as we become consistently dependent or technology and virtuality, we avoid real-life contact and relationships). The mark-making left behind by the Hexbugs would be a documentation of this.
We could do a performance piece in which we would surround the Hexbugs and yell out our fears. They will run away (in fear) from our shouting. The marks left behind would be a visual documentation of our own debilitation from fear.