4shrooms4u

Creating shadow is an important backing component of a visual composition.  This can be done by any number of normal things found in the home or kitchen.  Shadow components are hard but patterned with holes, the hard parts let through no light (although this is not a hard rule).

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Shadow patterns can be neutral, evocative, revealing and abstract.  A non-slip work mat shows a simple layout of holes, with no emotion.  In contrast, fencing or chicken wire reveals its structure, evoking a feeling of wire cages on the wall, and other kitchen wire objects create other feelings.  Bits can be cut off a shower mat or other plastic grids to create elements of a composition.

A funny thing happens when two strong grids are layered over the top:  where the shadows combine and the light combines, it creates a new set of patterns called Moire Patterns.  These are interesting in physics, you can read about them on Wikipedia.  To do this, all we need is two regular layers that are similar in some respect.

The eye finds itself torn between the strong shadow patterns and the meta layer created by the interference of the two.  This makes shadows alive, a small touch sends the Moire pattern dancing, and thus creates an instrument to work with the other dynamics of projection art.  Elements of mass, light and heavy can also be made to dance on the screen.  And, of course, we can write our message literally:  4shrooms4u!

Composition

The essence is to create strong patterns.  For example, a mat with holes creates a regular pattern across the screen that other images can lay over.  Because the pattern of shadow leaves darkness for other projections to fill with light, there is no problem with blending the two.  Shadows do not change the other images in form, they are a magical way of sharing the screen.

In imagery terms shadow can be a powerful guide to the eye, guiding the viewer to other parts of colour & light.  As a pattern, the shadow can create a counterpoint to another image.  Especially where the shadow pattern is strong and regular, it counters a soft, abstract image of light and colour.  Shadow can be a way of toning down the brightness of your projection, you can lay a shadow pattern over and the essential message will still be delivered, each point as bright, but the total light will be reduced.

Some shadows can be delicate.  A piece of material, frayed and torn, or a feather, reveals its image while still not dominating the scene.

Meaning

Shadow is the absence of light, and of colour, it can represent the absence of soul, or the dark forces that lurk.  But it can also be our desire to hold ourselves back, and let others forth.  I keep my strength in the shadow, so you can also glow.

Interaction

especially with other OPHs

Artifacts

• cotton clothing or material, thin enough for the light can shine through
• moving toys with a horizontal plane, such as balls
• wire, mesh, fencing