Indirection

Indirection is a grid of 100 full-color LEDs running custom algorithmic patterns. Created for display at the 2010 Burning Man Festival, Indirection has since been shown at private events in San Francisco.

Originally an untitled work, I chose the name Indirection after reflecting on commonalities amongst the patterns. What emerged were three consistent themes:

• Structure — through repetive, shifting forms of both geometry and color, varying over time
• Playfulness — through the dynamics of movement in light and explicit references to universal games
• Love — through symbolic imagery and the emotions evoked by color, particularly gradual hue shift

What particularly struck me was the lack of intentionality with which these themes had been realized. Though I hold love and play to be two of the most important things in life — for their powerful ability to forge human connection — they are also things that I often find myself communicating in indirect ways.

In a sense, my work on this piece ended up being an indirect way of making an internal realization. The result is in many ways a reflection of not just my aesthetic, but my personality and communication style.