Embracelet

BACKGROUND At the junction of art and science, Duckworth's research spans design, digital media art, computer games technology, human computer interaction and its application in health, particularly for populations with brain-injury and disability. This work, developed to help patients recuperate, asked how do muscles recover from injury? Is feedback helpful during retraining? Can an aesthetic dimension help to link therapeutic and daily environments? CONTRIBUTION Embracelet is the first creatively designed wearable device of its kind. It challenges the unhelpful assumptions and stereotypes that surround clinical environments and the recovery process per se. A 'soft' graspable device provides tactility and visual feedback. Grip strength corresponds to the number of lights activated on the bracelet, providing a tangible bridge between therapeutic and aesthetic, to stimulate and reward the recovering patient. SIGNIFICANCE Other selected exhibitors included Tamara Kyd, Leanne Zilka and Ashley Jameson Eriksmoen. Dr Patsy Hely, Senior Lecturer, ANU says, "What does distinguish the works in this exhibition is the way curiosity and intelligence is brought together in putting the digital to use. Jonathan Duckworth's poetically named Embracelet is a case in point. "Making objects is a conjuring act and objects produced via digital means or with new and unfamiliar materials can seem to have appeared inexplicably. But they don't; the works... are the outcomes of sustained and serious practice-led research and they demonstrate the capacity of creative arts practitioners to engage with industry and machines in new and exciting ways." Canberra Times 1 Aug 13, '.. this kinetic bracelet is so very like a piece of contemporary jewellery that it has great appeal." Embracelet was developed at the ANAT reSkin workshop hosted by ANU School of Art, CNMA and Craft Australia. Supported by Australia Council for the Arts, Nanotechnology Victoria and RMIT.