Pneuma.to

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Year of Production
2021
"Pneuma.to" is a software that allows the audience to generate and interact with symbols through breathing, highlighting the evolution of language with a multi-agent system. In the digital age, language is transformed into a standardized protocol that limits our freedom of expression. In contrast, "Pneuma.to" uses wireless devices to create distorted symbols, demonstrating the fluidity and uncertainty of digital language.
(project summary)
(project details)

"Pneuma.to" is a system co-created by symbols and breath, with which the audience can generate and interact with symbols through breathing. Language is the cornerstone of civilisation. It evolves as society develops. From Quipu to alphabetic systems, humans have created numerous methods of communication that document our progress throughout history.

In the digital age, we convert language into various standard information technology formats. These technologies limit our freedom to choose words and indirectly modify the nature of language. Behind computer files are mysterious codes that are regularly updated but have yet to be generally known. Because of these constant changes, technology is causing us to become increasingly alienated from our language. To demonstrate the fluidity of syntax and the uncertainty of digital language, "Pneuma.to" uses wireless devices to receive sound and create distorted symbols. The device's appearance combines flutes and obelisks; the audience can blow or speak into it, generating symbols projected onto the audience's appointed location. These symbols are then integrated into the projection during software activation, moving and combining to form new symbols, waiting for other audiences to give them meaning.

Exhibition Record

CODE.XCESS, JC Contemporary, Tai Kwun - Centre for Heritage and Arts, Hong Kong (Y:2024)

INK ASIA 2023, “Keep Up the Good Fun”, Pao Galleries, Hong Kong Arts Centre (Y:2023)

Auto.Mob, The Gallery of Hong Kong Art School, Hong Kong Arts Centre (Y:2021)

BACKGROUND

The idea of creating "Pneuma.to" emerged from my routine engagement in typing and coding. I discerned that the computer's autocompletion feature curtailed my verbal expression, but at the time, I felt that I was expressive with my code. Consequently, my fascination with the generative structure of language began to burgeon.

1. ASCII Code

I started investigating ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) and learning about different character encoding standards for electronic communication. ASCII, which is my daily standard for typing and coding, contains only 95 printable characters. I wonder if I could generate non-English language and symbols with the basic alphabet.

2. Deconstruct Alphabet

To generate a non-English language with English character encoding standards, I decided to deconstruct the alphabet in a hieroglyphic manner. To allow the deconstructed symbol to reconstruct itself within its digital nature with multiple agents. Then, these signs await the audience's interpretation.

Achievement

"Pneuma.to" was selected as one of the "Best of 20" in 14 global regions at the "INSTINC D:Art Fest 2022".