ABSTRACT
The proposed installation aims to redefine perceptions of Edinburgh by presenting its overlooked architectural elements through an amplified data-informed lens. Utilizing Lidar scanning technology, the project captures intricate details of iconic sites, dissecting them into abstract components. These elements are then projected onto unconventional materials, sourced from waste produced by the University of Edinburgh. By juxtaposing familiar landmarks with discarded materials, the installation challenges viewers to reconsider their preconceptions and engage with the city in a new light. Through this innovative approach, the project seeks to foster a deeper connection between the audience and the urban landscape, encouraging reflection on sustainability, consumption, and the inherent beauty of everyday spaces.
INTRODUCTION
The proposed installation seeks to offer viewers a pulverised perspective on Edinburgh’s architectural landscape, challenging conventional notions of beauty and significance. Often, iconic sites in the city are revered for their historical or cultural importance, yet the everyday elements that comprise these landmarks are overlooked. We aim to shift this narrative by leveraging advanced Lidar scanning technology to capture the intricate details and nuances of these structures, dissecting them into their fundamental elements.
In a collaborative effort with the University of Edinburgh, the installation addresses waste management by repurposing discarded materials collected from the university premises. This approach not only promotes sustainability by reducing waste but also adds layers of meaning and context to the project, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between architecture and environmental stewardship.
At its core, the installation employs an innovative projection mapping technique. Rather than projecting conventional images onto screens or walls, abstract representations of the scanned architectural elements are projected onto the collected waste materials. This juxtaposition challenges viewers’ perceptions and prompts contemplation on themes of consumption, waste, and environmental responsibility. By visually intertwining Edinburgh’s architectural heritage with waste materials, the installation encourages audiences to critically examine the balance between preservation and progress.
The selection of materials for the installation is deliberate, aiming to create contrast and tension. On one hand, there is the timeless elegance of Edinburgh’s architecture, abstractly represented through projections. On the other hand, there is the tangible reality of waste materials, symbolizing the transient nature of human consumption and its environmental impact. This contrast encourages viewers to engage with the installation and reflect on the environmental implications of modern living.
Additionally, the interactive nature of the installation invites viewers to actively participate. As they navigate through the exhibit, they are prompted to consider the relationship between the projected images and the physical materials on which they are displayed. This experiential approach fosters a deeper connection between the audience and the urban landscape, prompting reflection on the intrinsic beauty of everyday spaces and the importance of sustainability in preserving them for future generations.
In conclusion, the proposed installation represents a novel exploration of Edinburgh’s architectural identity, blending technology, art, and sustainability in a thought-provoking manner. By recontextualizing familiar landmarks and repurposing discarded materials, the project challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of the city and its built environment. Ultimately, it advocates for a more conscious and responsible approach to urban living, inviting audiences to envision a sustainable future for cities worldwide.
