Blossom
Interactive Installation for Zhenglong Yang
Blossom is an interactive video installation inspired by Eastern philosophy, emphasizing the cycle of life and the importance of being present. Through the blooming of a Hibiscus rosa sinensis, China rose, in response to the viewer's presence, the piece invites contemplation of life's transient beauty. It encourages viewers to embrace the moment, finding clarity and meaning within the perpetual rhythm of existence.
Download Press Kit № 167376
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Blossom by Zhenglong Yang
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Interactive Installation by Zhenglong Yang
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Zhenglong Yang Blossom
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Zhenglong Yang Interactive Installation
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Zhenglong Yang Designer Portrait Photo
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Unique Properties
Blossom is an interactive video installation inspired by Eastern philosophy, emphasizing the cycle of life and the importance of being present. Through the blooming of a Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (China rose) in response to the viewer’s presence, the piece invites contemplation of life’s transient beauty. It encourages viewers to embrace the moment, finding clarity and meaning within the perpetual rhythm of existence.
Tags
Interactive Installation, Responsive Art, Video Installation, Physical Computing, Presence, Eastern Philosophy
Production Technology
The design integrates a ToF (time-of-flight) sensor to detect the viewer's presence. Sensor data is processed by a microcontroller, which communicates with TouchDesigner, an interactive visual application running on a computer. TouchDesigner triggers the video content based on the input, which is then displayed on a CRT TV. This workflow combines precision sensing with dynamic visuals to create an engaging, responsive experience.
Design Challenge
The hardest part was translating Eastern philosophy into an interactive design that could communicate mindfulness and presence to a global audience. Capturing the transient beauty of a flower blooming required aligning technology with philosophical principles, ensuring it felt natural and reflective. The challenge was balancing technical precision with artistic subtlety, overcoming limitations in sensor accuracy, and ensuring the system’s responsiveness evoked the cyclical, harmonious nature central to Eastern thought.
Project Duration
The project started in September 2024 in New York City and finished in December 2024 in New York City, and was exhibited in Interactive Telecommunication Exhibition Brooklyn in December 2024.
Operation Flow
The ToF sensor detects the viewer's presence, sending data to a microcontroller that triggers TouchDesigner to control the video. The flower blooms fully when a viewer pauses, retreats to a bud when they leave, and reacts minimally to passersby. If the viewer leaves during the blooming process, it pauses and retreats to the bud. The integration of precise sensor data with dynamic content enables an intuitive and engaging interaction, fostering a deeper connection to the present moment.
Research
Type of Research: Experimental design research. Objectives: To explore how interactivity fosters mindfulness and emotional engagement. Methodology: Prototyping and user testing refined the interaction between technology and behavior. Tools: ToF sensor, microcontroller, and TouchDesigner enabled dynamic responses. Results: Viewers paused to engage, highlighting its calming impact. Insights: The project bridges art, technology, and mindfulness, inspiring future public and interactive designs.
Inspiration
This artwork draws inspiration from Eastern philosophy, particularly the concepts of "the cycle of life" and "mindfulness of the present moment." The blossoming flower symbolizes fleeting beauty, while the closing bud reflects life's cyclical nature. Rooted in the wisdom of harmony with nature, the piece invites viewers to embrace the present and reflect on the interconnectedness of humanity, time, and the natural world.
Project Overview
Blossom Interactive Installation has been a Bronze winner in the Installation Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Bronze A' Design Award is given to outstanding designs that showcase a high degree of creativity and practicality. It recognizes the dedication and skill of designers who produce work that stands out for its thoughtful development and innovative use of materials and technology. These designs are acknowledged for their professional execution and potential to influence industry standards positively. Winning this award highlights the designer's ability to blend form and function effectively, offering solutions that enhance people's lives and wellbeing.
Image Credits
For design images and photos please credit Zhenglong Yang.
Bronze Recognition
Zhenglong Yang was recognized with the coveted Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Blossom Interactive Installation.
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