Heliotrope is an artwork made using computer manipulated images and animations in which the user interacts to control the sequence of events. Like many interactive artworks the piece requires input from the user. However, unlike a computer game, the piece is more contemplative in its structure.

The piece uses as its theme some writings by Albert Camus, the Algerian born author. His works often featured the extreme north African sun as a symbol for the futility of any attempt to interpret and represent the fundamental forces of nature. This work, with the computer functioning as a mediating device between the user and the images, echoes this idea. The poetic texts being revealed by playful interaction with some symbols from nature, yet the texts themselves reflecting upon the vanity of interpretation. That the user, like Camus, is torn between the fundamental sun and its rationalisation. That any interpretation or mediation device, such as the computer - or even writing itself, while offering us the chance for expression, can also simply distance us from the force itself.

Heliotrope contains 4 main sequences featuring the almond blossom, the almond, the bloodstone and the heliotrope itself.

The heliotrope is a Mediterranean flower which is named after its tendency to follow the sun.

Heliotrope texts Heliotrope background

Heliotrope has been produced through the Film & Video Umbrella with support from the Arts Council of England, North West Arts Board, Photo98 and Bradford City Council. It has been exhibited at Cartwright Hall Bradford, Artezium, Luton and Folly Gallery, Lancaster.