Bonfire Beats
Play with Light: A Rhythmic Installation at MAP Mima
COMPANY
USYD
ROLE
UX/UI Designer & Java Engineer
EXPERTISE
UX/UI Design & Java Engineering
YEAR
2023
Project description
Bonfire Beats is an interactive audiovisual installation designed for the Multi-Arts Pavilion, Mima (MAP Mima), inspired by the Awabakal people's corroboree traditions. The project invites users to engage with a drum pad interface that controls a responsive catenary lighting system, transforming cultural rhythms into dynamic visual patterns. Developed in collaboration with Indigenous artist Adam Manning, Bonfire Beats blends ancient storytelling with contemporary technology, offering an immersive and educational experience that celebrates Aboriginal heritage through sound, light, and participation.
Project Flow
Research & Planning
Explored Awabakal corroboree traditions and MAP Mima’s cultural mission. Identified the opportunity to blend rhythm, light, and storytelling through interactive design.
Design & Prototyping
Sketched interaction flows and prototyped a drum pad–controlled lighting system. Focused on intuitive, inclusive user experience and real-time audiovisual feedback.
Development & Implementation
Built a working prototype linking rhythmic input to catenary lighting effects. Collaborated with Indigenous artist Adam Manning to ensure cultural accuracy and impact.
Solution
An immersive installation that turns user-generated beats into light, celebrating Aboriginal culture through sound, interaction, and creative technology.
