ReBa (2017)
ReBa is an interactive artificial intelligence score in the persona of an anthropomorphized giant latex balloon suspended in space. (Her name means “responsive balloon.”) She has the ability to hear sounds made by participants via a hidden microphone and react accordingly via text projected onto her surface, which makes it appear she is “speaking” to the visitor. When ReBa is inactive, her text instructs visitors how to turn her on by manipulating a slider on a table in the “play” area (for playing, or playing with, balloons) opposite her. In addition to the start slider mechanism, the play area includes both inflated and uninflated balloons, water for wetting hands to make balloon squeaks, and some seating that faces ReBa.
When she is first turned on, she trains the participants in certain techniques for making sounds with balloons. She gradually encourages them to embark on their own creative explorations, and makes further suggestions. She makes her own choices as to how she will respond, based on her passion for balloon sounds and what she is hearing. ReBa is both fetish and fetishist, a manufactured object charming and subtly manipulating her guests to fulfill her needs. Through the experience, visitors often personalize ReBa, speaking back to her and marveling at how she sometimes seems to read their minds. They enjoy the fun experience, but some also comment on ReBa’s somewhat suggestive nature. (ReBa is part of “Chamber Ensemble,” a participatory sculptural sonic environment utilizing round ready-made latex balloons of various sizes. The installation consists of three interconnected sonic sculptures: ReBa, Balloon Release and Stripes Too.) Programmed by Judy Dunaway with MaxMSPJitter. View ReBa in action below:
When she is first turned on, she trains the participants in certain techniques for making sounds with balloons. She gradually encourages them to embark on their own creative explorations, and makes further suggestions. She makes her own choices as to how she will respond, based on her passion for balloon sounds and what she is hearing. ReBa is both fetish and fetishist, a manufactured object charming and subtly manipulating her guests to fulfill her needs. Through the experience, visitors often personalize ReBa, speaking back to her and marveling at how she sometimes seems to read their minds. They enjoy the fun experience, but some also comment on ReBa’s somewhat suggestive nature. (ReBa is part of “Chamber Ensemble,” a participatory sculptural sonic environment utilizing round ready-made latex balloons of various sizes. The installation consists of three interconnected sonic sculptures: ReBa, Balloon Release and Stripes Too.) Programmed by Judy Dunaway with MaxMSPJitter. View ReBa in action below: