The Sphere
Role
Conception
Construction
Visual Design
Category
Multimedia Art
Interactive Instal.
Project Overview
The Sphere is an interactive light and sound installation where visitors step inside a large cylindrical structure and control a three-part audiovisual show using a custom-built sphere controller. The project blends physical interaction, immersive storytelling, and responsive technology to create a dramatic, game-like experience.
Challenge
The challenge was to conceive, design, and present an interactive media space that uses sound and light as the main storytelling elements. The installation needed to be expressive yet reduced to the maximum, with a strong link between interaction and media response.
Research
Focus:
Exploring how physical objects can control complex digital environments.
User Goals:
Feel fully immersed in a responsive audiovisual space.
Understand interaction quickly without detailed instructions.
Experience a narrative that evolves with their actions.
Process
Concept & Storyboarding:
Defined a three-part narrative: introduction, interactive catch/fight game, and dramatic ending.Prototyping:
Built early setups with LED rails and a first sphere controller to test core interactions.Controller Development:
Created a custom sphere with Arduino sensors, enabling press and rotation as intuitive inputs.Iteration:
Expanded light setup, refined sound design, and adjusted game logic through multiple test cycles.Integration:
Connected all elements (lights, sound, visuals, controller) via OSC into one seamless installation.
Solution
The Sphere is an immersive light and sound installation controlled through a physical sphere.
🟢 Intro sequence: visitors explore light and sound to discover the space.
🔴 Interactive game: a light antagonist chases the visitor’s protagonist, with intensity rising through color and sound.
⚡ Dramatic ending: capture triggers a full red climax of light and audio.
🎛 Custom controller: pressing and rotating the sphere makes interaction simple, direct, and engaging.
Impact
Delivered a unique physical-digital connection that engaged visitors beyond passive observation. Demonstrated the power of light, sound, and interaction to create narrative tension.
Learnings
Connecting physical to digital requires clear, immediate feedback for visitors.
Dividing work by team strengths and reusing/upcycling materials proved efficient.
Abstract design thinking helped translate screen-based concepts to LED pixel rails.
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