VERBARIUM and LIFE SPACIES: creating a visual language by transcoding text into form on the Internet

Abstract

We are artists working on the creation of interactive computer systems that use the audiences' participation as essential input for the creation of image structures. In 1998 and 1999 we created two interactive Web sites for the Internet called VERBARIUM and LIFE SPACIES. These two Web sites allow users on the Internet to write text messages that are instantly translated into visual 3D forms. Our custom designed text-to-form editor takes the letters, syntax and sequencing of a text message as generic code and updates the design functions for the creation of 3D forms according to the text message parameters. As the text messages of the different users on the Internet are usually unique and diverse, unique and personal 3D visual forms and shapes can be created by the users.