The Maiden is an electro-pneumatic construction adapted from a medical diagnostic and surgical table. For its mechanical control the hand operating levels and adjustment features have been replaced by the pneumatic actuators, giving the Maiden motion control features by MIDI activated pneumatics.
Normally MIDI code is generated and used by electronic musical instruments and is widely used by musicians. In this exhibition, many functions of motion or change are mediated by the MIDI code for its ability to represent music-like quality in composition, control, and programming.
In its theatrical setting, the Maiden also includes two fans, two video projectors, and a microphone. Naturally, by using musical instruments as input, the table and fans are activated by a score that a visitor can perform through a musical instrument or by singing into the microphone.
Once learned, the score is repeatable and unambiguous. The tones or a group of tones control the animated gestures of the Maiden.