T
O
T
E
M
Symbols
of
Change
Concept
Totem: Symbols of Change is a unique collaboration between Beer van Geer and Studio Poca (Julie de Ruijter), aiming to transform the complexity and beauty of heartbeats into visual art. Utilizing the unique patterns in heartbeat data – specifically the interbeat intervals – they generate unique geometric shapes, creating a bridge between biology and art.
This generative art series is released via NFT technology with Bright Moments, uncovers a new dimension of perceiving our own biological rhythm.
Collectors can choose to upload their own heartrate below, or get a randomised Totem with a heart rate series from our collection.
The Totem series, comprising of 100 exclusive pieces, has been launched on the Bright Moments Portal.
The series is not sold out yet! You can by your personal Totem nft below.
Contribute and Receive
Collectors who upload their heart rate data for the customization of their NFT will unlock a special feature that incorporates a “heartsquiggle” into their artwork. This signature will be placed as a personalized stamp in the bottom right corner of the artwork.
Personal ‘heartsquiggle’
Details
Each piece in the Totem series is born from heartbeat data. Collectors are given the choice to input their own heartbeat through an interactive ritual, or alternatively, a random anonymized heartbeat series from our database will be used. The minting technology behind this series is the ArtBlocks Engine, but instead of using the random hashstring that is normally utilised, the heartrate data is used in the creation process. The data is stored on ipfs and embedded as external asset on the blockchain.
By capturing the inner movements trough biofeedback technology, a Totem visualises the intangible force behind our transforming lifes. Our art algorithm crafts dynamic lines that trace a path towards a central point, their motion dictated by the heartbeat input. As the heart rate fluctuates, so do the lines – rising with an increased heartbeat and falling with a decreased one. This interplay creates a dynamic wave effect, forming an interplay of light and shadow, and revealing unique shapes.
Every line originates from a basic geometric shape chosen randomly based on the data. Other features such as line thickness and the quantity of lines are also determined randomly by the data. Despite the simplicity of these elements the system offers a wide variety of possible variations.
Heart rate data holds a captivating allure for generative art. It is a unique biological signature, rhythmically charting the ebb and flow of our very existence. By using this data as a raw material for art creation, we infuse a deeply personal, living element into the art-making process, creating pieces that are not only visually appealing but also intimately tied to the life force of an individual.
Geometry
Each Totem consists out of two geometryical shapes stacked upon each other, randomly chosen by use of heart rate data.
Triangle
Cubic
Round
Square
Cubic Inverted
Round Inverted
Cubic Wave
Round Wave
Sizes
There are several sizing categories the algorithm can choose from.
Expand
Introspect
Unveil
Surrender
Emerge
Unfold
Renewal
Nourish
Line Types
All Totems are build out of a certain amount of lines and can be drawn horizontlly, vertically or a combination of both.
The linetypes are handpicked by the artists and randomly selected by the input of the heart rate data.
Ethereal
Vertical
Balanced
Vertical
Concrete
Vertical
Balanced
Horizontal
Feather
Horizontal
Reduced
Horizontal
Ethereal
Horizontal
Sketch
Vertical
Matrix
Combo 1
Matrix
Combo 2
Matrix
Combo 3
Grounding
Vertical
Shaded
Vertical
Ratio’s
The upper and bottom shapes can differ in size, creating a unique feel to them. This is defined with a decimal with a range between 0.25 and 0.85.
Ratio Sample 0.25
Ratio Sample 0.5
Ratio Sample 0.85
Project History
The Totem project, now in its second year, began with the heartbeats of Julie and Beer’s close family and friends, birthing the Totem tribe. The first series was a unique fusion of generative digital forms and hand-drawn elements by Julie. Our new series has successfully automated Julie’s artistic style, transitioning from the analog drawing process to digital generative art.
Our first series has been proudly exhibited in numerous venues, most notably the esteemed Stedelijk Museum in Schiedam, Netherlands, as part of the ‘Spiritual Urgency’ exhibition.
We did several exhibitions where we created custom Tomems with the visitors. The data we recorded over the years acts as the base for the new Totem serie : Symbols of Change.
Excerpt of tv show by Avro/Tros on Dutch Television.
The Artists
BeervanGeer
BeervanGeer is a studio for development for interactive media design with focus on exploration of human consciousness. His focus lays on making the invisible world visible by making use of generative art and sensor data.
His work has been picked up the last years in the generative art scene through his series on ArtBlocks, Plottables, Blockart and now BrightMoments.
Studio Poca
As Studio Poca, Julie de Ruijter develops ritualistic artworks and interactive rituals, exploring the intuitive, visual and symbolic realm. Merging the tangible and intangible to explore the transformative potential of ritual. Julie’s work is an invitation to reconnect with our bodies and feelings in an intuitive way.
Drawing on her background as a fashion and textile designer,
Julie’s work merges traditional textile techniques with contemporary elements, shaped by natural rhythms and the mystical.