Emergent phenomena fundamentally require some level of interactivity or informational exchange. In this experiment we will be examining, recording, and analyzing emergent architectural structures which develop around the behavior of avatars within the virtual world of Second Life. As we examine the potential for scripted objects to respond to avatar behavior, this will serve as a model for future developments of physical and hybrid interactive architectures.
Sonar has been designed as a prototype for the reason that it is meant to evolve. As Sonar interacts with the avatars who inhabit its space, its structure will visibly change and be recorded for subsequent analysis. The flexibility of the system allows for adjustment of scripted variables which will give us more control and customization of the properties of Sonar. This, in turn, will allow us to more closely govern the types of forms and interactions that are possible within the system. Much of this will develop through play and experimentation and this will only happen with group participation. Sonar requires avatar presence to grow and evolve and your unique contribution will help to shape its developing form over time. As we begin to discover limits and opportunities of the system, we can record these and produce more refined subsequent versions of Sonar for future use.
To participate in this experiment, simply join the Project Sonar Group in Second Life and/or join the group at the following address..
After speaking with group members, we will identify the best time to begin the first experiment. This will likely be sometime within November 2007 and will simply require a very short time committment on the part of the participants.
Note: Sonar is in the final stages of development and will not appear in Second Life until approximately November 17-20th 2007.
