Cat’s Cradle

Cat’s Cradle is a performance that combines choreography, physical installations, and ​responsive sound. The work is inspired by the traditional folk game of the same name, where ​participants use their fingers to construct relational spatial figures in string.

The Cat’s Cradle performance magnifies this process to the scale of the human body. By ​incorporating platforms, wearables, pulleys, and other physical elements, a dynamic system is ​created where the string figures define a constantly shifting space. These tensioned strings ​serve as conduits for mutual perception and the means to influence one another. In addition, ​they serve as a representation of the performers’ relational dynamics, indexing their ​interdependence which is further enhanced through a responsive soundscape. The ​choreography evolves with the dynamic system as it moves in and out of equilibrium, ​reciprocally impacting the other performer during the process.

The project challenges received notions of stasis and permanence in architectural space, and ​the self-contained body. Through an emergent choreographic performance, we explore the ​ubiquitous concept of dynamic balance and mutual dependence inherent in various ​relationships—a state that is in constant flux but remains inherently harmonious.

Category

Interactive Installation Design, Soundscape, Spacial Design, Choreography, Fashion Design

Tools

Fusion 360, Max/MSP, Fabrication Equipment, Aruduino, Unity

Platform Making Process