The Vision Machine is a mixed reality performance.

Based on the successful virtual reality (VR) performance Awkward Consequence (premièred in Hong Kong in May 2016), designed to be experienced by many simultaneous participants, The Vision Machine continues the exploration of the limits of VR, proposing using a VR experience as performative input. The title references a book by Paul Virilio, which starts with a quotation of Jean François Marmontel: “The Art requires Witnesses”. The Vision Machine explores this idea by creating a public performance from a single witness of the VR world.

In The Vision Machine, we use a EEG–based brain–computer interface to capture the brain activity of a a single VR participant experiencing a new version of Awkward Consequence. This information is fed in real–time to a custom system that collaborates with the performers, generating an audiovisual journey to be experience by the audience.

The Vision Machine is a collaborative project between Computer engineer Christian Clark, Architect/Artist Tobias Klein and Computer Scientist/musician Tomas Laurenzo.

Clark’s expertise in new media arts, interaction design and interaction in public settings has seen him and his company Shaman working internationally on large scale multi-media projects. (clark.uy)

Klein works in the fields of Architecture, Art, Design and interactive Media Installation. His work generates a syncretism of contemporary CAD/CAM technologies with site and culturally specific design narratives, intuitive non-linear design processes, and historical cultural references. (kleintobias.com)

With a background in both computer science and art, Laurenzo's work spans across different practices and interests, including Human-Computer Interaction, Artificial Intelligence, and Virtual Reality. His artistic production is also diverse and includes installations, interactive art, music, live cinema, and digital lutherie (Laurenzo.net)

The Vision Machine was supported by the School of Creative Media of City University Hong Kong where both Tobias Klein and Tomas Laurenzo are currently employed. (scm.cityu.edu.hk)