Description: Video mapping is a projection technique that transforms three-dimensional objects onto a display surface for video projection. This technique allows images to be precisely adjusted and aligned on irregular or complex surfaces, creating an immersive and engaging visual experience. Through the use of specialized software and projection hardware, video mapping can manipulate light and color to bring surfaces to life, generating dynamic visual effects. This technique is based on principles of computer graphics, where algorithms are used to calculate how the image should be projected based on the geometry of the surface. Video mapping is not limited to projection on static objects but can also be applied to moving environments, making it a versatile tool in the realm of digital art and advertising. Its ability to create optical illusions and stunning visual effects has led to its adoption across various industries, from entertainment to architecture, where the aim is to enhance the aesthetics of spaces through the projection of images that interact with the environment.
History: Video mapping began to gain popularity in the 1960s, but it was in the 1990s that the necessary technologies for large-scale implementation were developed. One significant milestone was the use of mapping software in artistic events and concerts, where it was used to create stunning visual shows. As projection technology and computer graphics algorithms improved, video mapping became a common tool in the entertainment and art industries.
Uses: Video mapping is used in a variety of applications, including live shows, art installations, advertising, and architectural presentations. In concerts and festivals, it is employed to create visual effects that complement the music. In advertising, it is used to attract public attention through creative projections on buildings and public spaces. It is also applied in art exhibitions, where artists use mapping to transform spaces and tell visual stories.
Examples: A notable example of video mapping is the ‘The Night of the Museums’ event at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where images were projected onto the building’s facades. Another case is the use of mapping in the ‘Vivid Sydney’ event, where iconic buildings in the city were illuminated with artistic projections. Additionally, video mapping has been used in product launches, such as the iPhone launch, where images were projected on a stage to highlight the device’s features.