The project is inspired by the vast potential of open-source software (FOSS) in online development communities for creating Extended Reality (XR) experiences. For creative and artistic makers, tapping into this potential can be challenging due to the steep learning curve of these developer-focused tools.
The goal of the project is to develop a product design that has been tested as an accessible, rewarding creation platform, specifically tailored for creative and artistic makers. This product will be made available as free and open source software (FOSS) for the broader maker community. By leveraging scalable web software, the project lowers technological (hardware) requirements, creating a level playing field and giving makers with limited financial resources access to this new XR creation medium.
XR environments that meet these goals and principles as an open platform are virtually non-existent. By offering an open solution, WordVerseXR can provide smaller creators with an accessible entry point into the world of Extended Reality (XR). With the intended ease of use, creators from diverse backgrounds—artists, designers, 3D modelers, illustrators, directors, writers, photographers, sound designers, creative coders, and (web) developers—can collaborate more quickly, sharing knowledge and ideas seamlessly.
Foundscape Orchestra copmbines traditional art forms such as ceramics with state-of-the-art electronic circuit design.
WordVerseXR emerged from this research project as a digital facility to enable the retention of the Foundscape installations through pioneering of Virtual Reality and LiDAR capture methods.
The WordVerseXR concept emerged from various “proof of concepts” developed in collaboration with other artistic creators. After various collaborations with artists and facilitating XR documentation and online experiences, the Design Party Program has developed a stable and workable tech stack. The Program believes that embedding knowledge directly into the user interface of the online platform is the key to enabling other creators to craft XR experiences without facing a steep technical learning curve.
In the near future, User experience and interface improvements will be tested against the needs of various technological creators from diverse backgrounds, including artists, designers, 3D modelers, illustrators, directors, writers, photographers, sound designers, creative coders, and (web) developers.
During this phase, WordVerseXR will serve as a sketch and creation platform for participating creators. Testing will occur through an agile process, where user interface improvements are iterated in short cycles and qualitatively assessed during collaboration.
The 2024 Realities In Transition summer residency offered the unique opportunity to test and refine the WordVerseXR concept in an international setting, bringing it closer to a mature user experience.
Feedback will be gathered regularly, allowing creators to share their insights and suggestions for improvements. This collected feedback will help prioritize existing and new functionalities for further development and eventual implementation. Documentation of this process will be maintained using an agile card deck, ensuring retention and flexible planning.