Instant Drawing Machine is a good example of how art+technology can meet the man on the street. Oliver Halsman Rosenberg and Clint Taniguchi, who collaborate under the name Crust and Dirt, draw very playful images following the wishes requested via webcam from passersby in cities across the world.

Carrying the laptop, someone from the art gallery that host their work takes to the streets in search of a wireless connection. Once the connection is found, the laptop is seemingly abandoned on any found object: a cardboard box, a soft-drink crate, a set of steps, a bench or even a parking meter.

Using wireless internet links and webcams, Crust and Dirt on the other side of the world now appear full screen and try to entice local strangers to participate. Who will stop and talk to them? When someone approaches, the artists ask them for their wish or dream. In a few minutes, Crust and Dirt have drawn and broadcasted live the participants wish. After the drawing is complete, the participants “pay” for the experience by depositing 100 yen, or about one dollar, into an old chocolate box.

Crust and Dirt are exhibiting ‘Instant Drawing Machine’ at the Drawing Center, New York June 17 – July 22, 2006. Via Jeansnow.