Overview
Adventures in data visualization VR edition is a summer workshop dedicated to explorations into the field of data visualization by means of computational design approaches and technologies.
By accessing and manipulating open datasets, the participants design and develop projects that make raw data perceivable through virtual reality experiences. The workshop offers an opportunity to reimage common data experiences into virtually perceived worlds to create new and novel user experiences.
By leveraging VR technology, participants will focus on creating a deeper sensory connection between the user and the data by experimenting with data-driven stories.
The projects can make use of storytelling, experimental, artistic or information design techniques and approaches. Data is the material, VR is the medium.
The workshop activities are based on design and programming sessions in which participants develop a project individually or in teams. The workshop is an intensive educational course featuring hands-on activities and peer to peer learning.
During the workshop tutoring sessions and resources are provided according to the design goal of the participants’ projects. The tutoring sessions point to transfer the fundamental knowledge of web technologies, in particular, of popular software libraries such as D3.js, Three.js and A-frame. People with advanced tech proficiency are free to use their favorite prototyping and development framework, and get support and collaboration on the design level.
Open data
Adventures in data visualization VR edition focuses on the opportunities of leveraging the power of using Open Data for creative projects. Participants will be introduced to Open Data and its ecosystem of values and resources: OASI web, the platform of the Environmental Data Lab of Canton Ticino, will be used as one of the main repository of open datasets available for the development of the VR experiences.
Lake sessions
Evening dives into the lake of Lugano are a warmly encouraged side activity of the workshop. Participants are welcome to bring their own bath suit.
Teachers & Tutors
Fabio Franchino, @fabiofranchino
Fabio is a computational designer and a founding partner at ToDo Creative Agency in Torino. He has always been involved in creative processes, ranging in fields from music to design, passing through performing and generative arts. He discovered the potential of programming as a medium and unconventional tool for his creative purposes. He explores ideas through evolving processes, often finding unexpected, meaningful outcomes and new aesthetics. After gaining senior experience with ActionScript and Processing, he has been exploring JavaScript and web technologies, trying to discover further creative potentials. He has taught in several institutions and has held workshops in his field of expertise; he also organized the first Italian event devoted to computational practices in art and design. fabiofranchino.com todo.to.it
Serena Cangiano, SUPSI, coordinator, @almostserena
Serena Cangiano, researcher, interaction designer and proud leader of the hands-on summer schools in interaction design at SUPSI.
Giovanni Profeta, SUPSI, coordinator & tutor, @profeta_g
Giovanni Profeta holds a Master's Degree in Visual and Multimedia Communication from the University Iuav of Venice. He is Ph.D. candidate in Design at Politecnico di Milano and develops applied research projects focused on data visualization and interaction design at the Laboratory of visual culture - Interaction Design Lab SUPSI and DensityDesign Research Lab. Currently he is a visiting researcher at Urban Complexity Lab in Potsdam (Germany).
Greta Castellana, information designer @gretacastellana
Greta is an Interaction and Information designer interested in exploring data and technology as a way to interact with people. She holds a BA in Graphic and Communication Design from ISIA Urbino and an MA in Information Design from the Design Academy Eindhoven. She has been living in different European countries and since January she is enjoying her working experience at Interactive Things in Zurich.
Fabian Frei, Lake Sessions Tutor @faebser
Fabian Frei, designer and developer from San Gallen, highly capable of coding and swimming also at the same time.
Marco Lurati, SUPSI fablab, @fablablugano
Marco Lurati, engineer, interaction designer and fabtotum at Fablab SUPSI Lugano.
External lecturers
A group of experts will join the workshop to give online and off presentations that will enrich the learning process.
Practical information
Requirements
Adventures in Data Visualization is open to interaction designers, creative coders, software developers, researchers and makers interested in doing projects with data. A basic knowledge of scripting and programming language is recommended in order to participate. Motivated novices are very welcome to participate in the workshop. Participants must bring their own laptop.
Duration
5 days, from Monday 10th to Friday 14th July 2017, about 7 hours per day (35 hours)
Certificate and ECTS
Certificate of attendance and 2 ECTS
Language
English
Equipment and materials
More information will be given after the workshop confirmation.
Venues
Workshop activities will take place at Campus Trevano SUPSI in the atelier of Master of Advanced Studies in Interaction Design and FabLab SUPSI Lugano, Building A, level -1.
Special events
Adventures in data visualization 2017 aims to be an event where people exchange information and visions about topics related to design and technology. Participants are warmly invited to give a public presentation about their works or interests during the special events program that will be made public before the start of the workshop. Lugano is a city offering many cultural and music events during the summer period. Here the information about Buskers Festival that takes place from 12th to 16th July 2017.
Registration deadline and fee
Places are limited to 20 participants. Information about the registration fee will be shared by May 5th, 2017. Accommodation and food are not included.
Waiting list Application form
The information about the registration will be made available on 5th May 2017. If you would like to join the workshop, please send your application for the waiting list. There is no selection process, once you apply we will notify you about the practical information to complete the registration.
Contact
For more information write to serena.cangiano@supsi.ch