Role: Individual Project
Overview
Reeflection is an interactive installation that explores artificial coral reefs as both ecological solutions and ethical questions. Combining physical sculpture, digital visualisation, and sensory interaction, the project aims not just to inform but to invite reflection on the broader tensions between technological intervention, environmental preservation, and human responsibility.
Problem / Purpose
Artificial coral reefs are man-made structures placed in the ocean to support marine life and restore damaged ecosystems. They are a prime example of human intervention in nature: in some cases, they have helped regenerate habitats and increase biodiversity, while in others they have failed and caused further environmental damage. This tension became the foundation of the project. Reeflection was developed to make this complexity accessible, translating research and data into an interactive experience that encourages reflection on technology as a response to environmental problems, rather than presenting it as a simple or guaranteed solution.
Process
The installation is built around a periscope-based interaction model driven by sensor input. Using photoresistors connected through an ADC to a Raspberry Pi, the system detects changes in light when a viewer looks inside, triggering synchronised visual and audio outputs. This created an intuitive interaction that audiences could activate through their own movement and curiosity. Alongside this, I developed data-driven visualisations in Processing, using case study data to represent both the ecological potential and the risks of artificial reefs. Instead of presenting the information as static facts, I translated it into motion, colour, density, and change over time.
From developing reliable sensor systems to adapting display solutions within budget limitations, the project required balancing technical feasibility with design intent. These constraints ultimately shaped how the interaction and visual experience came together.
Outcome
Reeflection resulted in a fully functional interactive installation that demonstrates my ability to design sensor-based experiences, work with data as a creative material, and translate research into engaging, accessible formats. It reflects my interest in building systems that not only inform, but encourage critical thinking and reflection.