Paper short abstract:

This paper discusses findings and process of practice-based research into wearable light focusing on light as a medium in interaction with the body as a dynamic projection surface. A reflective and adaptive methodology characterises the process across a series of solo and collaborative projects.

Paper long abstract:

This paper discusses findings and process of an ongoing experimental, practice-based research into wearable light and its implications in terms of the visual perception of the body and the agency of wearers or performers.

The research investigates how wearable light interacts with the body and its environment; it explores how this interaction shapes the visual perception of the body and the agency of the wearer or performer. It investigates the mechanics and effects of placing light on the body and establishes a critical vocabulary for the description and evaluation of wearable light leading to an emergent visual language of wearable light that can be applied across. disciplines. Practice outcomes cross boundaries between design, performance and lens-based media with potential for future applications within health, wellbeing and personal safety.

A reflective and adaptive methodology characterises the research process in which the researcher integrates the roles of participant and observer in an evolving series of projects and in which practice is the main vehicle, informed by the selection of critical context and continuous external feedback. Due to the cross-disciplinary nature of wearable light collaborative projects with practitioners in art, design and performance as well as with technological experts are balanced with experimental 'solo projects' in which the researcher is the sole author and takes on all roles required to complete the project. The paper will focus in particular on the role of collaborations vis-à-vis solo projects in driving the research process and outcomes.