Sister Cities Express: An Exploration of Media Immersion

This paper covers the research completed during the creation of the Sister Cities Express capstone project consisting of the members of Anaya Chavez, Iniobong Obong, Jillian Puckett, Julia Siclovan, and Logan Weil. We (Jillian Puckett and Logan Weil) further investigated methods and theories related to media immersion and the project itself to further enhance it. By examining concepts related to the physical construction of the project, and theories relating to it, we were able to examine the importance of choosing a concrete theme that lends itself to flexible thinking when creating an immersive experience. In our case, the overarching theme of going on a train ride provides a space that is conducive to traveling, cultural exchange, and community, among other aspects, and enhances the immersion. In short, this paper analyzes usage of digital and physical techniques (such as parallax animation, spatialization, video mapping, physical fabrication, and set design) to explore the possibilities of more immersive and compelling installment art.