What Is Art
What Is Art
April 18th, 2025 by Isaac Cheaz
Prof: J.H. Moon
Project Description:
This project, titled YOU ARE ART, transforms the viewer into both the creator and the creation. Through an interactive canvas powered by real-time hand tracking (with Ml5.js) and generative visuals, the user becomes the central figure in a living artwork. As the viewer stands before the screen, their hand gestures and pinch movements are captured and translated into brushstrokes and visual distortions, allowing them to "paint" on the canvas using only their body. The piece opens with a brief introductory messageβYOU ARE ARTβinviting the participant to reflect on their role in the digital space. The lines on the canvas that work to create an abstract image of the user also doubles as a notebook, adding to the theme. Gradually, the video feed is revealed as a grid of animated lines that respond to light and movement, reinforcing the idea that every gesture alters the visual world. This work questions the boundary between observer and artist, reminding us our gestures, movements, and interactions are already performative acts. Through YOU ARE ART, I want to explore themes of authorship and the participatory nature of digital identity.