Bio Elektron - A Multisensory Approach to Augmenting Dance, Combining: Biosignals, Drawing, Sound and Electrical Feedback

In this paper, we investigate how to augment a dance performance using a multisensory approach in a way that communicates the dancing process as an embodied experience. We collaborated with a dancer and a media artist over an 8-week residency to prepare and present a multisensory dance performance and a spin-off installation. We present related work regarding key areas for this research: dance and technology in general; biosignal sensors; multisensory media (sound, drawing and haptics); and the relation between dance and installation. We also report on the artistic process, which was documented through seven interviews with the artists. Finally, we discuss strategies for drawing and sonification leading to heightened embodiment; approaches for drawing and haptics triggering impressions from the performance; while highlighting the importance of space as a unifying concept in embodied multisensory work. These strategies and approaches can be useful for artists interested in conducting related embodied multisensory work.