Yauner’s exit sign is controlled by a motion sensor. When people are moving near the sign, it functions as a standard static emergency-exit sign. However, when there is no motion near the sign, the overworked pictogram takes a break from running and participates in a number of activities, from watching TV to taking a nap. By animating the stationary running man we see every day and usually ignore, Yauner gives the exit sign a life of its own and challenges the viewer to notice and observe ordinary objects.

Gallery label from

Applied Design, March 2, 2013–January 31, 2014.

Medium Interactive Flash animation, LCD screen, computer, motion sensor, powder-coated steel casing
Dimensions 18 1/8 × 12 3/16 × 4 3/4" (46 × 31 × 12 cm)
Credit Gift of the Contemporary Arts Council of The Museum of Modern Art
Object number 1341.2009
Department Architecture & Design

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Interactive design

The field that shapes the conversation between people and machines. Successful interactive design translates and simplifies this relationship so that we are able to manage our increasingly tech-heavy lives without extensive technical training.

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