Isadora ‘almost out of beta’: Tracing the development of a new software tool for performing artists

Mark Coniglio is an artist who has recently programmed Isadora, a real-time software tool to support the creation of interactive live performance work for installation or stage. Programmed primarily to manipulate digital video, the Isadora software interface is designed to be easier to use than other similar realtime software tools. In dialogue with Scott deLahunta, Coniglio discusses his motivation and intention in developing Isadora, explores connections between his artistic and programming practice, talks about the use of the software in his own work with the performance company Troika Ranch and speculates on his role as author of the software in relation to those who use it to create their own work. This is followed by comments from some artists who have been using the Isadora software. The main aim of this dialogue is to provide an insight into the creation of software tools for artists to those who may be relatively new to this practice. © Intellect Ltd 2005.