By ‘Odidi Matai-Sigudla
Excited voices and energetic little footsteps animate the Amazwi Activity Room as parents converse amongst themselves, waiting to take their kids to How To Become A Cool Unicorn.
Through the use of 3D scanning and virtual reality (VR), Swiss artist Simon Senn, offers audiences the opportunity to bring their digital clones to life. Senn introduces the different devices littered across the room, showcasing each as he explains their functions.
Senn is best known for his work with video and performance which explores the effects of technology on human relationships. Although Senn struggles to hold their attention at times, he engages well with the young audience and answers every question thrown his way.
To keep it all manageable, Senn divides the participants across three sections. The first section features two cell phones, mounted on tripods. These devices create 3D avatars, and allow participants to converse with each other through the use of emojis. This activity is a hit with the crowd as they are able to create a multitude of different characters.
The second section is dedicated to the creation of the participant’s virtual world. Each person is able to take pictures of objects they would like to include in their digital realm. The concluding station sees the children scanning themselves into their world using a VR scanner. This unique experience fascinates the children (and adults) to no end.
Finally, participants enter the virtual world they’ve created together. Although the world they create is a work in progress, all are dazzled.
“It was lovely watching the kids interacting with all the technology,” says one parent. “Seeing them get excited about it. And especially at the end where they see what they created, just watching their faces, it was wonderful.”
Senn agrees. “I think my favourite part is when people experience virtual reality for the first time… it’s really amazing to see the faces, the reactions, and the surprise people get.”
He goes on to explain how he hopes that, following the workshop, children will continue to feel the joy of discovering the possibilities of technology but also remain vigilant to the dangers of the devices.
