APEX: An Exploration of The Arts Through Science & Technology

JUNE 25, 2022
BRANSCOMB AUDITORIUM (Florida Southern College)
3:15 PM Panel Discussion
4:00 PM SHOWCASE

​Stepping into a phase of scientific investigation using the art of dance. As the first of its kind to be produced in the City of Lakeland, Apex  is an arts & technology initiative to further conversations and  bring the cultural arts and scientific communities together. Utilizing Mbientlab Metamotion C boards, Adafruit Neopixels and Myoware muscle sensor technology, Florida Dance Theatre in collaboration with graduate students of Florida Polytechnic University's Arts Lab venture into an epic exploration. As dancers execute various movements, sensors built by Polytechnic graduates will record the data and funnel it through an algorithm to produce colorful fractal images and light. 

This project will be structured with the capacity for touring to schools in underserved communities in the City of Lakeland and surrounding communities as part of FDT's Passport to The Arts program. Collaborating with Crystal Lake Elementary School and Explorations V Children’s Museum, we will produce lecture demonstrations and workshops that allow students to wear the sensors, see data they produce during movement and provide input on ways to advance STEM and arts integration within the city. This allows students to increase their levels of critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills while experiencing arts innovation. In these first steps of combining arts and technology, we are moving Lakeland and Polk County a few steps further in the Creative Industries. 

This project is supported in part by an Impact Polk grant through the George W. Jenkins Fund within GiveWell Community Foundation, Pabst Charitable Trust and The Maguires of Lakeland. As we continue to work to create lasting impact in the communities we serve, we are extremely grateful to our supporters. ​

Audience members can vote on colors they would like to see the sensors display during the performance.