Chōcho

An Interactive Installation for Storytelling and Self-Reflection

2019

Keywords
Responsive Environment
Experience Design
Keywords
Tools
Processing
Arduino
Laser Cutter
Advisor
Prof. Sang Won-Leigh
Hunter Spence​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Teammates
Courtney Allen
Tae Prasongpongchai
Xiangqi Liu
My Role
Concept Development
Experience Design
Prototyping
Highlights
Immersive Installation: An interactive on-campus installation that helps students transform negative thoughts into hope through shared stories.

Symbolic Origami: Origami butterflies serve as metaphors for transformation and hope.

Reflective Prompts: Each butterfly features questions to encourage deeper reflection on identity and aspirations.

Engaging Interactions: Lighting and sound guide students to interact with the butterflies, fostering engagement and reflection.
Concept
From Senbazuru to Chōcho: Origami as a Metaphor for Transformation
​​​​​​​Inspired by the Japanese legends of senbazuru (1000 origami cranes, symbolizing hope) and Chōcho (where white butterflies represent personal transformation), this installation uses origami butterflies as metaphors for change.
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Multiple interactive butterflies are placed throughout the space, each with themed questions designed to prompt students to reflect on who they are, who they want to become, and what they aim to achieve.​​​​​​​
Experience Design
- A calming atmosphere with whispering sounds greets students entering the space.
- Approaching a butterfly activates lighting and softens background noise to invite interaction.
- Touching a butterfly triggers recorded heartfelt stories from fellow students, fostering connection and empathy.
Interaction
Three colored paper butterflies represent the three reflection questions.
Copper tape inside each butterfly acts as a capacitive touch sensor, activating the speaker to play recorded responses when touched.