'Synthesis — From Steam to Fusion' by Dr. Sha Xin Wei and Colleagues

Abstract:

How can we build rich, responsive environments for shelter, sociality or play? How do people experience computer-mediated environments that now include not only virtual reality games and experimental theater, but also classrooms, airports and public spaces? In short, how can we create environments that are richer but not more complicated, and how can we create worlds that we would want to live in? Synthesis hosts researchers and students who blend disciplines to create fresh knowledge, know-how and techniques for prototyping enriched, dynamical environments as live events.

Bio:Dr. Sha Xin Wei is professor and director of the School of Arts, Media and Engineering at Arizona State University; director of Synthesis; fellow of the ASU-Santa Fe Institute Center for Biosocial Complex Systems; affiliate faculty in computer science, future of innovation in society, Global Institute of Sustainability and English; and professor in the European Graduate School.
Sha's research ranges from gestural media, movement and temporality and realtime responsive environments to critical studies and philosophy of technology. Trained in mathematics at Harvard and Stanford, Sha has pursued experimental philosophy, art and technology. In 2001, Sha established the Topological Media Lab atelier for gesture and materiality at Georgia Institute of Technology. As Canada Research Chair in media arts and sciences and associate professor of design and computation arts at Concordia University from 2005 to 2013, Sha pioneered responsive environments for ethico-aesthetic improvisation. He publishes in media arts, science and technology studies, philosophy and computer science, including the book "Poiesis and Enchantment in Topological Media" (MIT Press).