The Memory Machine is part of my Masters thesis Honest Mistakes.

 

 

The installation is a prototype of a Virtual Memory Browser (VMB) - A future oriented design concept which unites 3D image capturing with virtual reality - both of which are technologies expected to be integrated into our smartphones within a few years time - just look at Google's Project Tango and the Samsung Gear VR. VMBs are the next logical step for image sharing, and is closer to being science fact than science fiction.

Photos have primarily an emotional function with consumers. We capture and share them to hang onto memories. By expanding these photos into the third dimension, as well as taking advantage of the presence offered by VR, we can give photos a much greater emotional impact. Suddenly, instead of merely looking at an image in a photo album, we are actually there, in that very moment the image was taken.

The Memory Machine is intended to give users a taste of what it may be like to use a VMB. The prototype is procedurally generated, so every user will have a unique experience. The installation also features a generative soundtrack, designed with sound designer and musician Willas Rød, which reflects what memories the user is currently viewing.

The memories themselves are comprised of glitchy photogrammetric 3D-scans from the mobile app 123D Catch, and the user can navigate around them using light head movements. The result is a meditative and emotionally engaging journey through real memories.

The installation was nominated in two categories at the AHO Works Diploma exhibition: Innovation, and Form and Expression