Footprint Mapping

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300 × 600

Footprint mapping
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300 × 600

"Footprint mapping" is an attempt to create a digital map of streets and public spaces by gathering "footprints" of participants of the project.The artist creates DIY style digital mapping system consisting of cheap pedometer(step meter), digital compass, micro processor, web cam and laptop computer. All the system will be set on a custom made backpack so that one of the participants can try.

The map will be made from the information gathered from pedometer(step meter) to measure the distance by counting steps, digital compass to find directions for every single step, web cam which will be installed above of the person and look down to take digital photographs of surroundings for each step. Laptop computer generates dynamic collage of photographs in real time and show it on the participant's back.

Participant can go anywhere includes inside of building, subway station, etc. As long as the memory of laptop is filled up with data of photographs or battery is run out. End of each day, the artist try to gather each participant's footprint map into single digital collage. Then other participants may find he/she is walking on somebody's footprint.

The result and process of mapping will be documented and updated on website and/or exhibition place( or something like information center of the festival), where each mapping tour will start.

(source: www.andrew.cmu.edu/user/noriyuki)