e-plegona
2023

Joint research by Yamaha and Yamaha Motor, Caltech, and Dr. Mark Changizi aiming to simulate Kando through science and art.

Project Overview

The “e-plegona” interactive installation creates Kando (the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value) through intuitive physical and non-verbal communication by both players. For over 130 years, Yamaha has been a leading brand providing deep satisfaction and Kando through its musical instruments and mobility products. With Professor Shinsuke Shimojo, Dr. Daw-An Wu, Amir-Vala Tavakoli, and Dr. Mark Changizi of Caltech as our research partners, we are challenging ourselves to scientifically explain and simulate the essence of experiencing Kando, a part of the slogan of both Yamahas.
This first experimental prototype of a fusion of science and art provides the experience of Kando. After experiencing this, what does Kando mean to you? We hope you can see the possibilities for the future.

*Kando is a Japanese word for the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value.

Works

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e-plegona

The installation has two people experience it at the same time, with players repeatedly communicating to each other through non-verbal and intuitive means. Each player creates a "note" on the round touchscreen and sends a rhythmic pattern to the other player. At the same time, touching the note sent by the other player creates a "tone" and thereby plays the rhythmic pattern created by the other player. Based on the results of our unique research combining science and art together with our research partners, this experimental prototype artificially stirs the emotions with non-verbal, intuitive communication to produce a connected vibe between people─like jazz improvisation─or the same sense of connection people often feel toward musical instruments or motorcycles in order to simulate experiences of Kando*.

Exhibition Information

SXSW 2023
hub.berlin 2023
Tech Open Air Festival 2023
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