How to raise awareness of the impact of ocean warming on coral reefs?
Coral bleaching occurs when corals lose or damage the symbiotic algae living within them, causing them to turn white. The primary cause of coral bleaching is ocean warming, as even small increases in sea temperature can severely damage coral reef ecosystems.
If we do not act now, coral reefs could disappear by 2050. This would directly affect nearly 500 million people who depend on reefs for coastal protection and fishing.
This immersive installation allows the audience to experience what happens when ocean temperatures rise and how it affects marine life.
Process
I developed the concept and user journey for the installation. Using Unreal Engine, I created an interactive visual environment with custom materials and blueprints to enhance audience engagement.
I also designed and 3D printed the coral models in Blender. Through user testing and feedback sessions, I analysed audience interaction and placed metal tape into the areas most frequently touched by users.
Then I connected capacitive sensors to metal tape and an Arduino, which sent real-time interaction data to Unreal Engine to drive the immersive experience. Technical components were hidden in the black box.