In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, moments of stress and anxiety often lead us to subconscious acts of self-soothing, like mindlessly fidgeting with a pen or tapping our feet. This instinctive behavior, rooted in childhood, inspired Reina Mun to explore how these fidgeting motions could be harnessed to create an interactive experience that transforms color and light—the fundamental elements that profoundly impact our perceptions and emotions. Reina is a designer and maker whose works transcend conventional boundaries, focusing on various physical mediums on an object-to-space scale. Employing fabrication techniques, assembly, and design computation, she seeks to imbue her creations with a sense of intimacy and empathy. Her research delves into interactivity and computation within the context of critical design and objecthood, elevating her work beyond mere aesthetics.
Luminous Solace, a visionary creation by Reina Mun, invites users to embark on an exploratory journey into the therapeutic and poetic realm of fidgeting motions with light and colors. It’s a testament to the idea that color and light, when combined, can shape our mood, energy levels, and the overall ambiance of a space.
At the heart of Luminous Solace is an interactive chromatic light that responds to fidgeting motions. The design incorporates a peripheral tactile fidgeting device, adorned with an array of textures and touch-sensitive switches for haptic interactions. This device interacts seamlessly with the lighting object, equipped with a convex diffuser that casts a mesmerizing array of colorscapes.
Participants are encouraged to toggle between the five integrated colorscapes by using the tactile switches on the fidgeting device. As they fondle and massage the device, their recurrent motions influence the color dynamics, altering hues, patterns, dimensions, and compositions. This transformation extends beyond the device, permeating the surrounding space and creating a unique manifestation of emotional comfort and tranquility.
The amalgamation of tactile manipulation and luminance cultivates a serene encounter, fostering an atmosphere of calmness and equilibrium. Imagine walking into a darkened room after a long day, greeted only by the captivating glow of colors and lights emanating from the corner—a visual symphony crafted through the choreography of fidgeting motions.
Luminous Solace goes beyond being a mere lighting installation; it is a facilitator of immersive well-being. It encourages users to delve into the therapeutic experiences of tactile engagement while simultaneously accentuating the impact of chromatic and luminous elements on human perception and emotion. This interactive lighting provides a unique opportunity for participants to interface with radiance through haptic and sensory modalities, fostering a deeper connection between our senses, bodies, and minds.