record

Thesis Info

LABS ID
00684
Thesis Title
Virtual Apparitions, Digital Ghosts: A Sculptural Manifestation of a Social Network
Author
Colleen Jennings
2nd Author
3rd Author
Degree
Master of Fine Arts
Year
2018
Number of Pages
33
University
University of California, Santa Cruz
Thesis Supervisor
Jennifer Parker
Supervisor e-mail
parker1 AT ucsc.edu
Other Supervisor(s)
Elizabeth Stephens, Edward Shanken
Language(s) of Thesis
English
Department / Discipline
Digital Arts and New Media
Languages Familiar to Author
English, German
URL where full thesis can be found
www.colleenjenningsart.com/uploads/6/3/0/8/63082473/jennings_final-1.pdf
Keywords
bodies, body, networks, virtual, social media, sculpture, projection, presence
Abstract: 200-500 words
Virtual Apparitions explores the transfer of identity through networks by examining the physical manifestation of virtual bodies using platforms that support congenial, friendly, romantic, or intimate relationships over long distances. Virtual bodies, including avatars, social media profiles, or video platforms, do not relay intimacy or subtle social cues; however, as technology advances, the gaps between the corporeal and virtual continue to diminish. The work visualizes the extended social network as a physical presence through the use of video, sound, and sculpture. In the cacophony of voices, presence is indeterminable, focus is scattered, and the network pulses with artificial liveliness.