Presentation - Mapping

Mapping

Introduction :

The mapping is a projection technique that can turn almost any surface into a video display.

Body :

• Root : The veejaying

The veejaying is the mixing in realtime of pictures on music. It means that the VJ is the pictures's DJ.
The veejaying is an artistic practice born during the seventies. It was popularized during the nineties with electronic music. In the beginning, it was only reserved for the underground and fringe cultures. Then, when electronic culture has been recognized, the veejaying entered in gallery, contemporary museum, theatre and so one. The expansion of the new technologies has also encouraged the development of the veejaying.

• Mapping :

As the veejaying, the mapping uses pictures, softwares and electronic devices to project animated pictures on a surface.

Many methods can be employed. Most of the time, a VJ creates digital shapes in 2 or 3D with a software. He can also choose it on the internet, for example. That is why veejaying and mapping can have some problems with law and copyright. Indeed, a VJ is not always the owner of his whole production.

Then, the shapes are projected on a surface to create optic illusions, depth and movement.

Usually, mapping is combined with audio to create an audio-visual performance, narrative or not.

• Main events :

Nowadays, the mapping is well known and a lot of events are organized around it.

La nuit des lumières in Lyon is famous for display of video mapping.

For example, in 2010, a mapping reacting to the people's voices has been created. It means that shapes and colours where changing depending on audiences's screams, talks or whispers.

In 2011, a giant and playable pinball has been projected on the Théâtre des Céléstins.

With those examples, we can understand that what is done in La nuit des lumières is innovative.

International contests of mapping are also organized everywhere in the world. The last one was in Paris and a french VJ has won the frist prize.

Summary :

The mapping is a form of video art inspired by the veejaying. Despite of hards beginnings, the mapping is recognized as a real artistic movement. With events like La nuit des lumières, the mapping is accessible to a large audience.

Conclusion :

In my opinion, new technologies allowes art and culture to be closer to the public. The mapping is a way of a real interactivity between arts and people.

Anne-Lise Salin