ECHO: an interactive encounter with identity
Interactive installation · identity & empathy
ECHO invites people into an encounter with another person’s story and image. Its virtual-mirror format places the participant within the artwork, making the exchange personal.
What does the participant do?
In the version described by the Barbican, participants select a shared story and encounter their own identity reflected through another person. The Barbican’s exhibition description explains the experience and its January 2020 presentation.
How does the installation work?
Touchscreen interaction, real-time facial tracking, animation and storytelling bring personal narratives into an installation recalling a photo booth. The artistic aim is to explore empathy and connections between strangers.
Verified recognition
- 2018: Honorary Mention, Interactive Art+, Prix Ars Electronica.
- 2019: Best Digital Experience Award, Sheffield Doc/Fest.
See the award records and sources.
Credits for the 2018 CyberArts installation
- Artist
- Georgie Pinn (Electric Puppet)
- Creative producer
- Kendyl Rossi
- Software developer
- Jeremy Boulton
Credits follow the official 2018 CyberArts catalogue. This page describes the interactive installation; it does not combine its credits or awards with the later seven-metre sculpture.
Considering a participatory installation?
Start with the exchange you want people to have: what they can contribute, what changes in response and how others encounter it. A new commission also needs a plan for privacy and consent, accessible participation, site conditions and operation. These are briefing questions for a future project, not claims about the historic installation’s delivery arrangements.