Generative Techniques in Hypermedia Performance

Abstract

Generative techniques have become extremely popular in electronic art forms, yet the definition of the word ‘generative’ is elusive, especially when multiple art forms are involved. This article explores several generative multimedia performances and installations in an attempt to find and describe what links these coded art works. Although the works discussed are multimedia, in most instances only one element of a work is generative. The article is divided into three major sections, based on which medium uses generative techniques: music; visual art; and dance. The authors conclude by examining four works of their performing arts company Kinesthetech Sense: Nightingale Floor with generative audio; Six Hands Around, a generative video installation; Flesh Light Movement, which incorporates generative dance performance; and their most recent work, Ah(void), which uses generative choreography.