GestureCloud: gesture, surplus value and collaborative art exchange.

Abstract

GestureCloud is an art collaboration founded by Beijing-based artist Fei Jun and Toronto-based artist Judith Doyle. At the ISEA2013 Creators Session, GestureCloud discussed its collaborative research-creation methodology and gave a demonstration of its Xbox Kinect 3D depth camera modified for motion capture. In addition to describing past and current artistic projects, this text expands on the theoretical concerns raised at GestureCloud’s ISEA presentation, such as embodiment in the post-digital present and the changing status of labour. Particular attention is paid to networked installations that harness gesture to trigger physical effects between locations. Different types of value (economic, documentary, social) that may be attributed to gesture are also considered.