Data Storm (prototype I)
v1.0 by: Michael Takeo Magruder with Drew Baker & Erik Fleming, 2014
A generative virtual construct that is algorithmically constructed in real time from Earth's own weather patterns.
About the Artwork:
Data Storm (prototype I) is a generative virtual construct that is algorithmically constructed in real time from Earth's own weather patterns. The artwork's 3D geometry is created by a series of artificial life algorithms that endlessly produce unique spiral forms. In contrast, each storm's texture is generated by a server-side program that taps into the online image repository of EUMETSAT (European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites) and links to current satellite imagery of the Earth's surface as seen from space.
On each loop of the storm cycle, a randomly selected image is applied to the virtual construct, which grows, swells and finally dissipates into nothingness. As in real life, every virtual storm system the artwork generates is unique since its internal 'genetic' makeup exists in a perpetual state of flux and its external 'developmental' influence is derived from an ever-changing pool of scientific data captured from the real world.
Artwork Documentation:
In Collaboration with:
Drew Baker [ VRML programming ] . Erik Fleming [ Java programming ]
With Thanks to:
Lisa Helin [ curation ]
Supported by:
Data Storm (prototype I) v1.0 was commissioned in 2014 by Vivacity (Peterborough, UK) for the Living Data solo touring exhibition.
Installation Documentation:
Artwork Requirements:
[ gallery ] High-specification Windows 7/8/10 computer system capable of real-time high definition 3D rendering (VRML); multi/single-channel high definition video system; 5.1/2.1 audio system; and HCI device for user interaction.
[ online ] Windows 7/8/10 computer system with Firefox or Internet Explorer; the Cortona3D Viewer plugin; and stereo audio. A high-specification CPU/GPU, colour display with ≥1024x768 resolution and high-speed Internet connection are recommended.
[ VIEW THE ARTWORK (Windows - Firefox/Internet Explorer) 6MB ]
* The Cortona3D Viewer is not available for OS X and Linux. On these systems FreeWRL can be used to render most aspects of the work.
* In April 2015 Google deprecated support for NPAPI plug-ins (including Cortona3D Viewer). As such, VRML works can no longer be viewed using Chrome.