My "Twelve Steps to Healthy Convergence" proposal received positive feedback and advisory approval last semester. I remain enthusiastic about the idea’s potential and believe it to be rich with content. As planned, I’ve had time this summer to reflect on the proposal, continue my research, and further investigate the logistics of the project. From the start I’ve maintained focus on four central elements including PARODY, TECH ADDICTION, CHARACTERS, and INTERACTION. These elements form the nucleus of the idea and drive the concept. Below is a diagram of the "thesis universe" and its various forms of presentation. My original proposal focused on PERFORMANCE SPACE as a "platform" and/or venue (upper right galaxy) for the primary content. Interaction was encouraged through 1) selective audience participation and 2) a collection of customized interfaces, props, media, etc.
Several comments have resonated throughout the evolution of this concept and help shape my current thoughts on the concept/proposal:
• Reduce the project scope, costs, and logistics.
• Enhance, reinterpret, and parody through the use of technology.
• Make the experience more holistic and potentially less fragmented.
• Iterate the concept throughout the process and development.
• Consider the department’s organization, labs, and resources.
• Manifest my own sensibilities, aesthetics, and talents.
• Utilize accessible technology to execute the ideas.
Live performance has been an exciting force behind "12 Steps to Healthy convergence," as well as many of its logistical challenges. Leasing a performance venue, building sets, coordinating actors' schedules, and purchasing equipment is likely to be no small task. The original $10,000 budget for the project has also grown. However, my primary concern is that complex logistics and growing costs will distract from my limited time, resources, and budget. For this reason, I've challenged myself to invent another way to communicate the core content and/or the "X" (to use an EA term) of the concept.
This summer the project has evolved and I have brainstormed, discussed, and considered many other formats, including Web, Mobile, and Installation. I'm looking forward to presenting the NEW & IMPROVED 12s2Hc, getting constructive feedback, and beginning CTIN-555a next week!