Chromatophony: A Potential Application of Living Images in the Pixel Era

Abstract

Abstract Squids can rapidly change their body color using chromatophores that are controlled by electrical signals transmitted through nerves. The authors transform a squid's skin into an audio visualizer, Chromatophony. This is accomplished by sending an electric tone signal composed as music to the skin. Although the appearance of Chromatophony is similar to computer-generated images, it is based on a natural phenomenon with a colorful mosaic display. By comparing chromatophores with pixels, the authors propose Living Images, to expand the potential of visual expression from the perspective of bio-art theory.