Unleash Your Shadow Monster July 30, 2015
Philip Worthington, Shadow Monsters, 2004–present, Java, Processing, BlobDetection, SoNIA, and Physics software, reproduced courtesy of the artist. Photo by Carrithers Studio
If you’ve visited the Museum this summer, chances are you’ve encountered Shadow Monsters, Philip Worthington’s participatory art installation. The artist’s pre-programmed software adds features to visitors’ shadows, which become new creatures with imaginative appendages like eyes, teeth, and fins—morphing the everyday visitor into a momentary monster.
Now you, too, have a chance to add your own flair to these shadow monsters.* After you’ve explored the installation, snap a photo and post it to Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #ShadowMonsters. Then, make your way to the iPads at the center tables to unleash your inner artist by adding drawings or text, and print your image.
Think about how your artistic choices might change your image. What colors make it happy, scary, or funny? Where can you add lines or shapes to emphasize a feature? Or, can you make your monster even more monstrous with extra fangs, humps, or eyes? Don’t be scared: Create your one-of-kind memento this summer.
*Please note that the photo-editing activity was available only for a limited time! As of August 14, the iPads are gone, but when you visit the installation, you may still print your "Shadow Monsters" photos by posting to social media with the hashtag #ShadowMonsters on Twitter or Instagram.
