Disruptive Critters is an interactive hybrid audiovisual installation created by the Duckworth Hullick Duo, a collaboration between designer Dr Jonathan Duckworth (RMIT) and composer Dr James Hullick (Jolt Inc). Disruptive Critters explores the performative possibilities of autonomous computer generated agents, interactive media and digital design. Using a multi-touch tabletop console, players activate real-time computer generated virtual avatars (or critters), which roam the virtual performance space. The critters, each with their own sound world and gestural repertoire, become autonomous co-performers in the work, interacting with players and with each other in seemingly unpredictable ways.
Dr Jonathan Duckworth is a leading researcher in the Centre for Games Design Research, RMIT University. His work specialises in digital media art, virtual reality, human computer interaction and design. Dr James Hullick is a composer, sound artist and artistic director who exists at the forefront of international sonic arts creation and presentation. James’ sonic practice is wide-ranging and his projects have been presented internationally for a variety of ensembles and electronic formats.
RMIT will showcase two additional works developed by PhD students at the CiART lab
Andrea Rassell, Wildly oscillating molecules of unanticipated momentum: A collection of several short experimental moving image works constructed using an Atomic Force Microscope. These experimental videos use sonified data of nanoscale phenomena as their soundtrack.
Tim Ryan, 2K Reality: A touchscreen application designed to sonically augment pickup basketball play spaces using broadcast-style commentary; stadium-style crowd sound effects and contemporary music break beats activated by spectators.
