I analysed the gestures and outcome, and visualised them in a concept flow diagram.

Process: ml5.js model and javascript

I started loading code for hand gesture into p5.js and visual studio code. It was a struggle at first as it wasn't able to load effectively. One main error I got in p5js was ‘TypeError: ml5.handpose is not a function’. I managed to get some help from ChatGPT which helped identified the fact that I was using these codes from old libraries. All I had to do was to update them and it worked. I also learnt that I was able to transfer the code from p5.js to Visual Studio Code through this tutorial.

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This was the code that I asked ChatGPT to help generate them. The function openWindowWithSize allows opening windows in random sizes. One thing I really have grown to appreciate in computational coding is having a random function. I find that it creates surprises, and looks visually compelling to me, and plus point is the interaction is so simple yet fun. But I may be biased so...

Gesture to Opening Browsers

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Reflecting on visuals

Midway through trying to replicate Song's outcome, I began to reflect on what truly intrigued me about the work. Its interactivity resonated with me, and in my view, the concept is straightforward—gesture and visuals. I think the small browser windows that opened were what truly defined its aesthetic, evoking a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of 90s internet visuals.

Reflecting on launching browser experience

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This experience reminded me of an interview I read about Chia Amisola's practice. As a website artist, she uses the web as a medium for her performances, often referring to her work as "ambient art" and the "poetic web." She describes her practice as the "construction of environments or worlds."

In the interview, Chia talks about the inherent challenges of creating websites—how they often require new technologies, frameworks, and libraries. This friction, she argues, leads many to rely on ready-made, commercialized platforms instead. Reflecting on my own creation, I began to wonder: how does my work, "Gestures to Browsers," align with the notion of decentralising from the commercialised web?

I feel that the use of gestures introduces a poetic element by making interactions more intuitive and accessible. By engaging with the action of opening new browser windows (windows.open()) through physical gestures, users become active participants in the experience, signaling to the computer with their hands to initiate the action.

This interaction feels poetic in itself—creating a moment where the human body, the browser, and the web interface connect in an expressive way. It blurs the lines between functionality and poetic expression, making the act of engaging with technology feel thoughtful and intentional. While I’m still figuring out how to articulate this fully, I sense that the tactile and symbolic nature of gestures adds something deeply meaningful to the experience.

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Getting my studio mates to try

I'd have to adjust the code to allow the browsers to spawn at random areas. The loading time at the start took a little longer, but I think that's just my macbook being a little slow. Also missed opportunity to ask my friends how they feel about it! I only have this screen recording, so I shall go with the assumption that they enjoyed the experience!

Consulation with Andreas

For consultation, I showed Andreas my progress and shared a bit about the reflections I had on the way. I had my doubts about creating browser based experimentations and Andreas assured me that it was fine as I was just exploring net art.