Reference work: Blind Robot (2005), Louis-Philippe Demers & Bill Vorn
This installation presents an interaction between a robotic arm and a human participant, where the robot explores the participant’s face through touch.
What stands out in this work is the shift in roles. Instead of controlling or observing the machine, the participant becomes the subject being explored. This creates a sense of uncertainty, as the interaction is slow, physical, and not entirely predictable.
There is no visual interface or clear explanation of what is happening. As a result, the experience relies on bodily awareness rather than interpretation through instructions or screens.
This made me reconsider how interaction can be structured. In many digital systems, clarity and control are prioritised, but this work shows that removing these elements can create a more intense and memorable experience.
In relation to our project, this reference highlights the importance of hesitation and subtle interaction. Rather than guiding users towards a fixed outcome, interaction can remain open, allowing meaning to emerge through small actions and personal interpretation.
