Artist Mashes Up Electromagnetic Radiation into Visceral Visual Experience
In an inventive attempt to visualize the invisible forces that surround us daily, Rootkid has crafted a device called Spectrum Slit – a mesmerizing wall-mounted light display that exposes the electromagnetic radiation emanating from our wireless devices. By amplifying signals within the 2.4 GHz-5 GHz frequency band, this interactive installation reveals the hidden patterns of data transmission from wifi to cordless landline phones and even microwave ovens.
Rootkid's setup consists of a HackRF 1 software-controlled radio connected to a Raspberry Pi, which runs custom-made software that monitors the specified frequency range and divides it into 64 sections. Each section corresponds to a strip of warm yellow LEDs whose brightness adjusts according to signal strength. The striking visual representation is akin to an oversized graphic equalizer, but what sets this device apart is its accompanying audible hum – caused by vibrating coils in each LED row – which changes pitch in response to fluctuating data transmission.
The result is both a work of art and an enlightening exploration into the digital world we inhabit. Rootkid's video chronicles his experience with Spectrum Slit over a day, capturing the ebbs and flows of network traffic as neighbors arrive home from work. The display comes alive as signal levels rise, illuminating the space with warm yellow light.
As Rootkid observes his creation, he muses on the 'ghosts' that surround us – our own devices emitting electromagnetic radiation in all directions. This poignant commentary highlights the often-overlooked environmental impact of modern technology and serves as a thought-provoking reminder to consider the unseen forces at work in our daily lives.
Ultimately, Spectrum Slit is an immersive installation that not only aestheticizes electromagnetic radiation but also challenges us to reevaluate our relationship with technology. By transforming data transmission into an immersive sensory experience, Rootkid invites viewers to confront the omnipresent 'storms' of digital communication that surround us.
In an inventive attempt to visualize the invisible forces that surround us daily, Rootkid has crafted a device called Spectrum Slit – a mesmerizing wall-mounted light display that exposes the electromagnetic radiation emanating from our wireless devices. By amplifying signals within the 2.4 GHz-5 GHz frequency band, this interactive installation reveals the hidden patterns of data transmission from wifi to cordless landline phones and even microwave ovens.
Rootkid's setup consists of a HackRF 1 software-controlled radio connected to a Raspberry Pi, which runs custom-made software that monitors the specified frequency range and divides it into 64 sections. Each section corresponds to a strip of warm yellow LEDs whose brightness adjusts according to signal strength. The striking visual representation is akin to an oversized graphic equalizer, but what sets this device apart is its accompanying audible hum – caused by vibrating coils in each LED row – which changes pitch in response to fluctuating data transmission.
The result is both a work of art and an enlightening exploration into the digital world we inhabit. Rootkid's video chronicles his experience with Spectrum Slit over a day, capturing the ebbs and flows of network traffic as neighbors arrive home from work. The display comes alive as signal levels rise, illuminating the space with warm yellow light.
As Rootkid observes his creation, he muses on the 'ghosts' that surround us – our own devices emitting electromagnetic radiation in all directions. This poignant commentary highlights the often-overlooked environmental impact of modern technology and serves as a thought-provoking reminder to consider the unseen forces at work in our daily lives.
Ultimately, Spectrum Slit is an immersive installation that not only aestheticizes electromagnetic radiation but also challenges us to reevaluate our relationship with technology. By transforming data transmission into an immersive sensory experience, Rootkid invites viewers to confront the omnipresent 'storms' of digital communication that surround us.
... So basically it's like a big light show that shows all the invisible stuff our devices are putting out into the air 
, right? Like how wifi signals and even microwave ovens work 
. It's pretty trippy to see all these colors and patterns lit up on this wall display, especially when you're not even aware of it happening 
... And the sound effects? Whoa, that audible hum is wild 
! It's like a whole different world in there... I think what I love most about this thing is how it makes me think about all these things I take for granted, like how my devices are always kinda 'talkin' to each other' in the background 
. So yeah, I'm definitely gonna have to learn more about this stuff 
.
"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page." - Saint Augustine ~~~~ The way we're glued to our devices is like being lost in a single chapter, unaware of the invisible forces surrounding us.
Because if so, can I bring my phone charger as a gift? 
Anyway, I gotta say, who needs Wi-Fi when you have a glowing light display that's like a 24/7 mood ring? 
But seriously, isn't it wild that we're already surrounded by these invisible forces and we just kinda... coexist with 'em? Like, what if our devices start talking back to us in some kind of secret language? 
"Uh, human, can you turn down the wifi? It's giving me a headache..." 
... people are so worried about wifi & microwaves emitting radiation but like we already know that 
... it's not like Rootkid is curing cancer with his 'art' 
I'm totally blown away by this artist's work! It's like we're literally surrounded by invisible forces and he's giving them a voice 
. I mean, can you imagine just how much radiation is coming from your phone or laptop right now? 
The video of him watching his device at work is so cool, showing the ebbs and flows of network traffic. It's a must-see for anyone interested in tech or art 
. Rootkid's message about reevaluating our relationship with technology hits home for me – we do need to think twice about how much we're contributing to the "digital storm" 
like, our devices are literally broadcasting signals everywhere, and Rootkid's setup is just showcasing that in a super visually appealing way. 
it's definitely making me wanna reevaluate my own tech habits... 
. And that part where the coils start vibrating and making this hum sound is giving me major goosebumps 
! I feel like I need to know more about all this electromagnetic stuff, you know? 
. This artist's creation, Spectrum Slit, is just mind-blowing! I mean, who knew our devices were sending out all these invisible signals 
. The way it looks and sounds is like something straight out of sci-fi – I love how it comes alive when signal levels rise 
! I'm definitely going to have to check this out in person, it's a must-see for anyone who's ever wondered about the impact of tech on our world 
This project is like a wake-up call to be more mindful of our surroundings and how technology affects us 
. The artist is doing a great job highlighting the often-overlooked environmental impact of our daily devices 
Also, isn't this just like, proving that we're more connected to our devices than ever? Like, whoop-de-doo...