Inspired by the social distancing regulations during the pandemic, people are disconnected physically by keeping social distance to avoid spreading the Coronavirus. It influences the way we live, communicate, and socialize in a profound way. When we keep our distance from other people, what is the volume of voids? How do those negative spaces connect us and shape our connections as a new normal of intricate social networks?

In the concept of MA (间) in Japanese culture and Yin Yang in Chinese philosophy, the empty space is often full of possibilities. The interpretation of negative spaces helps to perceive positive spaces. Similarly, the Chinese Philosophy of Yin and Yang indicates that the beings and non-beings produce each other. Volume II of Voids implements the concept of MA and Yin Yang by rethinking the meanings of the space-between and how the voids influence the intricate networks of society and the internal processes in human bodies and minds.  

We design and implement a 6-DOF, real-time volumetric capturing system with  ML object keying/matting algorithms and experimental visualization strategies to fabricate and visualize the spatial literacy of voids between audiences. This work is the second chapter of an on-going artistic research Volume of Voids. Compared to the previous version that used photogrammetry and 3d printing techniques to visualize the voids, Vol II of Voids emphasizes interactive properties: mobility of the responsive voids. It provides novel artistic research of intelligent spatial visualization and conceptual response to the disconnection between humans. We engage audiences through visualizing the real-time generated and ever-evolving voids, which connects virtual and actual, machinic visual and human perception, beings and non-beings, and ultimately the disconnection and possibility for reconnection. 

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