Analyzing the Aesthetics of Participation of Media Architecture

This paper presents a theoretical framework for analyzing the aesthetics of participation of media architecture. The framework is based on a close reading of French philosopher Jacques Rancière and provides four points of emphasis: modes of sense perception, forms of engagement, community and emancipation. The framework is put to use in the analysis of three experimental media architectural projects; Ekkomaten/Echoes from Møllevangen, the coMotion Bench and FeltRadio. We discuss the findings from this analysis and outline future perspectives on how to develop and use the framework prospectively in the design of media architectural projects and other interactive environments.