May 16, 2005
doc_u
Beautiful Seams
doc_u is an interactive installation made up of visual self-documentation. The project exploits user-friendly technology (mobile phone cams and Macromedia Flash) to allow multiple images to be shown simultaneously. Rather than concentrating on ‘Virtuality’ or even ‘Reality’ as a digital thematic, the project focuses on the ‘beautiful seams’ of the relational space between. Although facilitated by high-tech, software, hardware and the potential of ubiquitous computing, the work underlines the beauty of the ordinary, the domestic and the lo-tech. The installation draws on popular culture and a viewer’s familiarity with concepts of self-documentation, video diaries and docu-soaps to encourage participation and overcome fear of technology.
Jess Loseby and the Babylon Gallery have been holding workshops with schools and community groups local to the gallery using 5 mobile camera phones. The participants were asked to randomly document themselves and their environment in a set time. They were encouraged not to delete or alter any images, as part of the aesthetic of the installation was to highlight the beautiful ‘accidents’ and to dismiss attempts to make ‘art’. The project is now open across the Internet to everyone. If you would like to participate please see the guidelines below. There is no age limit, focus or geographical restriction placed on the submissions. The youngest participant in the project is currently 3 years old - the oldest, 70!
Posted by jo at May 16, 2005 10:59 AM
