Video Projection

This technique has become increasingly popular in recent decades, being used in various contexts, from art performances and music festivals to marketing and corporate events. Video projections allow artists and designers to project images, text and animations onto various surfaces, including buildings, stage sets and interiors, transforming ordinary spaces into dynamic and interactive visual landscapes.

Video projection involves understanding how video technology is used to create and manipulate images that are then projected onto various surfaces. This technique can include simple projections onto flat screens, but also complex projects that use three-dimensional surfaces, creating the illusion of depth and movement. In essence, video projection is a fusion of art, technology, and space, allowing artists to express their ideas in a new and innovative way.

History

The history of video projection is closely linked to the evolution of projection technology and cinema. In the 19th century , the first forms of projection were used in magic lantern shows, where images painted on glass were projected onto walls using candles or oil lamps. These shows were the precursors to modern cinema and captivated audiences with animated visual stories.

With the invention of the cinema in 1895 by the Lumière brothers, film projection became a popular form of entertainment. Over the following decades, technology evolved rapidly, and film projectors became more advanced and affordable. Video projection, as we know it today, began to take shape in the 1960s and 1970s , with the development of analog video equipment.

With the advent of digital technology in the 1990s and 2000s , video projection underwent a revolution. High-resolution digital projectors allowed artists to create sharp, detailed images, and video editing software offered unprecedented creative control. Video projection was adopted in a variety of fields, from art and theater to advertising and corporate events.

"Video projection is about turning space into a canvas and illuminating the imagination with moving images." - Robert Lepage

Today, video projection continues to be an innovative and versatile form of artistic expression. Artists use this technology to create immersive installations , multimedia performances , and interactive exhibitions that fascinate and inspire audiences. Video projection not only pushes the boundaries of visual art, but also redefines the way we interact with space and time through image and light.

Consecrated Artists

Nam June Paik is often called the “father of video art” and was one of the first artists to explore the potential of video technology in an artistic context. His most famous work, “Electronic Superhighway: Continental US, Alaska, Hawaii” (1995), is a striking installation that uses televisions and neon lights to create a visual map of the United States. This work emphasizes the crucial role of mass media in cultural interconnection and global communication.

Tony Oursler is a pioneer in video projection onto unconventional surfaces, combining video images with sculptures and other physical elements to create immersive installations. His most notable work, “The Influence Machine” (2000), is an outdoor installation that projects images onto trees and smoke, accompanied by sounds and texts. It explores themes related to the history of communication and human perception, creating an immersive visual and auditory experience.

Krzysztof Wodiczko is known for using video projection onto public buildings and monuments to address social and political themes. One of his most influential works is “Homeless Projection: The Soldiers and Sailors Civil War Memorial” (1987), in which he projected images and stories of homeless people onto a monument in Boston. Through this work, Wodiczko draws attention to social issues and invites the audience to reflect on injustices in society.

Bill Viola is one of the most important contemporary video artists, known for his introspective works that explore themes such as life, death, and human consciousness. His work "The Passing" (1991) is a remarkable example of video art, combining black and white images with sounds to create a profound meditation on the passage of time and the fundamental experiences of existence.

Jenny Holzer , although primarily known for her use of text in art, has used video projections to amplify her powerful messages. Her work "For the City" (2004) involved textual projections onto the facades of buildings in New York City, addressing political and social themes such as war and human rights. Through this work, Holzer manages to transform urban space into a forum for reflection and public debate.

Ryoji Ikeda is a Japanese artist known for his works that explore the relationship between sound, time, and space through the use of video projection and audiovisual installations. His most famous work, “The Transfinite”(2011), was presented at the Park Avenue Armory in New York and combined giant video projections with powerful sounds to create a completely immersive experience. “The Transfinite” uses digital data and abstract projections to create an overwhelming space in which visitors are invited to explore the limits of their sensory perception. Ikeda is renowned for his ability to transform data and mathematics into highly engaging visual and auditory artistic experiences.

The Work Process

The video projection process is a complex process that combines artistic creativity with technical precision. It all starts with the conceptualization of the idea , where the artist or creative team establishes the purpose of the projection, the desired message and the visual impact they want to achieve. In this phase, the theme of the projection is defined and the first visual ideas are sketched. Also, detailed research is carried out to collect references and inspiration, essential elements for the further development of the project.

After the concept is clarified, technical and creative planning follows . This includes choosing the projection surface, which can range from buildings and architectural structures to scenes or three-dimensional objects. The dimensions and resolution required for the projection are also determined, depending on the available space and the desired effect. At this stage, the technical team ensures that all necessary equipment, such as projectors, media servers and control software, are available and functioning properly.

"Video projection is about bringing images and stories to life in a way that transcends the boundaries of space and time." - Krzysztof Wodiczko

Once the technical details are established, the artist moves on to creating the visual content . This involves developing the graphics, animations, and visual effects that will be projected. Using specialized software such as Adobe After Effects, Cinema 4D, or Modul8, designers create and edit the video content, adjusting it to perfectly fit the projection surface. At this stage, lighting factors, perspectives, and distortions that can occur when images are projected onto complex surfaces are taken into account.

The next stage is projection testing and adjustment , where the created content is projected onto the final surface to verify that everything lines up correctly and works as planned. During this phase, fine adjustments are made to optimize the clarity, colors, and timing of the projection. Testing is essential to ensure that the projection works flawlessly during the event or performance.

"Video projection is about turning space into a canvas and illuminating the imagination with moving images." - Robert Lepage

Finally, the execution of the screening takes place during the actual event. During the screening, the technical team monitors the equipment and timing, ensuring that everything is going according to plan. After the event, an evaluation and documentation phase may follow , where the success of the screening is analyzed and feedback is gathered for future projects.

Materials and Tools

The materials and tools used in video projection are essential to ensure the quality and visual impact of the projection. Video projectors are the most important equipment, and their choice depends on the size of the surface, the resolution and the brightness required. High-resolution and high-brightness projectors are preferred for large spaces and for projections on buildings.

Media servers are used to control and play video content, allowing for real-time image synchronization and manipulation. Specialized software such as Resolume Arena or TouchDesigner are often used for their flexibility and power in managing complex projections.

Projection lenses influence how the image is projected onto the surface. Variable zoom and wide-angle lenses are essential for adjusting the size and coverage of the image as needed.

Projection surfaces range from specialized screens to building facades, influencing color clarity and reflection. White or light gray surfaces are preferred for better detail rendering.

For interactive projections, motion sensors and tracking cameras are crucial, as they allow projections to respond to interactions in space, adding a dynamic dimension to the visual experience.

Working techniques

Video projection techniques vary depending on the complexity and objectives of the project. One of the most important techniques is 3D mapping or projection mapping , which involves projecting images onto three-dimensional surfaces, such as buildings or objects, to create the illusion of depth and movement. This requires a digital model of the surface to perfectly align the images with the real shapes.

Blending or edge blending is used when multiple projectors are used to cover large areas. This technique ensures a smooth transition between images, eliminating demarcation lines and creating a coherent image. Warping , on the other hand, allows images to adapt to unconventional or curved surfaces, while maintaining the clarity and correct proportions of visual elements.

Keying or chroma key is used to overlay video images or to remove certain parts of the image, facilitating the creation of complex visual compositions. In interactive projections, tracking plays a crucial role, allowing projections to respond to the movements of the audience or objects, adding an interactive and immersive dimension to the experience.

Integrated Environment

The integrated environment in which video projection operates combines art, technology and space in a unique and coherent way. Video projections transform ordinary surfaces into dynamic canvases, and the seamless integration of visual content with the surrounding architecture or space is essential. This integration requires meticulous planning so that the projections align perfectly with the surfaces, creating an immersive experience that combines aesthetics with functionality .

Multicultural Framework

The multicultural setting plays an important role in video projection, as this form of visual art is accessible and can be interpreted by a diverse audience, from different cultures and backgrounds. Video projections are often used in global events, festivals and exhibitions, where they need to be sensitive to cultural diversity . The images, symbols and themes used must be carefully chosen to avoid negative or misunderstood connotations in certain cultures, ensuring that the message is universal and inclusive .

Social Context

Social context is essential in the use of video projections, as they can reflect and influence changes and trends in society. Video projections are often used to address social and political themes, to raise awareness of current issues, or to promote important causes. In an age of visual information, video projections have the ability to quickly reach a wide audience and stimulate discussion and reflection on social issues.

Styles

The styles of video projection reflect the diversity and versatility of this artistic medium, which combines technology with creative expression to transform spaces and create unique visual experiences. From immersive projections on three-dimensional surfaces to interactive installations that respond to the audience’s movements, styles of video projection vary depending on purpose, context, and audience. Each style brings a distinct approach and a specific set of techniques, offering unlimited possibilities for artistic exploration and visual communication. Below, we will explore some of the most important styles used in video projection.

Projection Mapping

Projection Mapping is one of the most popular and innovative styles in video projection. This technique involves projecting images onto three-dimensional surfaces, such as buildings, sculptures, or stage sets. Projection mappingallows images and animations to align perfectly with the shapes and contours of the surface, creating the illusion of movement, transformation, and depth. It is often used in art performances, cultural events, and advertising, transforming ordinary spaces into immersive and memorable visual experiences.

Interactive Projection

Interactive Projection is a style that adds an extra level of dynamism, allowing the audience to interact with the projections in real time. By using motion sensors and tracking cameras, the projections react to the gestures and movements of the viewers, creating a personalized and immersive experience. Interactive projections are frequently used in museums, exhibitions and public spaces, offering a unique way to directly engage the audience and transform viewers into active participants.

Artistic Projection

Projection Art is a style in which video projections are used to explore abstract concepts and themes, often in a contemporary art context. Artists use projection art to create visual installations that explore themes such as identity, space, and time. This style is often experimental, involving avant-garde techniques and technological innovations to challenge traditional perceptions of art and offer new perspectives on the subjects being explored.

Performance Projection

Performance projection combines video projections with elements of dance, theater, or live music, creating a multimedia show. Performance projections are used to extend and amplify the artistic messages of performers, synchronizing their movements with projected images and animations. This style is commonly found in contemporary dance performances, concerts, and theater, providing a complex and integrated sensory experience that blends the visual with the performative.

Corporate Projection

Corporate Projection is a style used in commercial and business contexts, where video projections are used to convey brand messages, products or campaigns. Corporate projections are often an integral part of product launch events, conferences and trade shows, providing an impactful way to capture the audience's attention and communicate brand values ​​in a visual and memorable way.

Augmented Reality (AR) Projection

Augmented Reality (AR) projection is an emerging style that combines video projections with augmented reality elements, adding a digital layer over the real world. AR projections allow for the creation of interactive and dynamic experiences, where users can view and interact with digital content superimposed on physical space. This style is increasingly used in advertising, education and entertainment, offering new ways to connect the digital world with the real one.

Conclusion - Video projection is an art that transcends the boundaries of physical space, combining visual creativity with technology to transform ordinary surfaces into immersive experiences. It reimagines the way we interact with the world, offering not just images, but true sensory immersions that challenge the mind and awaken emotions. In an era of continuous change, video projection remains a profound and innovative expression of human potential, a medium that inspires and redefines perception in unexpected and fascinating ways.

Visual Examples