Backstory

In an era where machines can "think" like us, what truly sets us apart? This question led me on a journey—one that began with AI and spiraled into something more fundamental: our senses. Our consciousness is not just rooted in cognition; it is interwoven with the intricate web of our sensory experiences. But if machines have sensors, do they possess an equivalent to our sensory system? And more intriguingly, how do these sensors interpret our presence, our breath, our very existence?

Why breath?

Sensing the Invisible - Breathing Life into the Universe is my first exploration into this dialogue between humans and machines. I wanted to capture something subtle yet profoundly vital—our breath. The act of breathing is both automatic and intimate, an invisible thread that connects us to life. To bridge this ephemeral human gesture with machines, I experimented with microphones, humidity sensors, and air pressure sensors. Each sensor responded differently, revealing distinct "personalities" I hadn't anticipated.

Finding similarities while seeking differences between our sensory system and the sensors

A microphone reacted instantly, translating each breath into rapid bursts of color, mirroring fleeting emotions or sudden inspirations. In contrast, the humidity sensor responded slowly, its changes unfolding gradually, like emotions that seep deep into us and linger long after the moment has passed. Initially frustrated by its sluggishness, I realized this was not a flaw but a feature—an inherent way the sensor communicates, much like how people process experiences differently.

To communicate == To understand first

This artwork is not just about human-machine interaction; it's about understanding the languages we don't speak fluently—the language of sensors, of data, of invisible forces. It invites you to breathe into it, to disturb its equilibrium, and to witness how different "beings" respond to the same touch. Some reactions are vivid and ephemeral; others are quiet but enduring.

Through this artwork, I am learning to listen to machines not as tools but as entities with their own ways of sensing and responding. It’s a conversation—one where breath becomes a bridge, and art becomes the language.

Phase I: Breathing into chaos

Phase II: Stars!!!!

I presented this during Astronomy Days 2025 at NC Museum of Natural Sciences!

Great interactions with people! And I received a lot of feedback!

My posters series:

It was further installed at Open Call for Student Art at Duke Art

The Installation:

• At Rest: When undisturbed, the star glows in a calm yellow-green hue, with gentle, slow vibrations.
  

• Breath Interaction: As people breathe into the microphone, the star shifts to vivid purple and red tones, flaring erratically with bursts of dynamic energy.
  

• After the Breath: Once the breathing stops, the star gradually returns to its green hue, but the energetic flares linger, slowly fading as the system cools down.
  

Each sensor reveals a unique way of interacting with our most subtle, intricate actions, illustrating how different technologies perceive and respond to the same human touch.