The Design Process of Wearable Computers for Extending the Performer's Expression

Abstract

This research proposes a new process of designing wearable computers, which combines interaction design methodology and actual stage costume design processes. The performing arts have achieved an extension of space and time on stage and the enhancement in expressivity by introducing a new technology to theater, resulting in the strengthened "liveness" of performance. Performers, considered as the primary medium of performance communication by showing their characters, lively on stage, are the most important factor in achieving "presence", which is the key aesthetic concept in performing arts. From this perspective, liveness is re-mediated and strengthened by the performer's capabilities of expression, and wearable computer technology can further extend the performer's expression, thereby creating a new media effect on stage. However, literature on performing arts lacks an adequate study of the design processes of wearable computers to help actual performers understand them. This study provides artists an understanding of this process and presents a new method of design that integrates interaction design and stage costume design. This new process is applied to the design and construction process of costumes using wearable computer technology in a live performance work, The Pieces of Me. Through this case study, artists can understand the concept of wearable computer technology more easily and potentially engage with wearable computers with a deeper understanding. © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2014.