Melissa Bouwman
Connecting…
Zoom Screen Captures sequenced in Adobe After Effects
2 minutes 7 seconds
All of us are by now familiar with the landscape of Zoom. Isolated boxes, small portals where we present ourselves, and see others. Stuck in these rectangles, as we are in our isolated homes.
Inspired by a workshop at an animation retreat I attended, I wanted to explore ways to see and utilize that Zoom interface differently, to use it as a tool to create artwork collaboratively. Early experimentation was inspired by the tradition of visual music representing rhythms and melodies through shape and color. It then expanded to include common icons of life during a pandemic and the desire to share space once again. I gathered some friends who are animators. We wanted to bend the experience of the Zoom space to make it feel more communal, reflecting the affection of four friends, connecting.
Joining me in this collaborative work was my mentor and friend - Deanna Morse, my mentee and friend - Rachael Kleban, and animation professor and friend - Christine Veras. Music was provided by two additional friends: my BFF Joleen Rumsey, and David Bollinger.
