The artwork »Memories of a Future«, designed as a single-player game operated through a game console controller, delves into the complexities of identity within a digital environment. It raises pivotal questions such as the origins of the term "avatar" and how, from a Western perspective, we have appropriated this concept. What remains of the original meaning of avatar, and how does it intersect with mysticism and spiritualism in our understanding of technology? This venture embarks on a quest to trace the historical interconnections between spirituality, technology, hyperreality, play, and liminality.
In collaboration with author Sofiya Sobkowiak from the 15th academic year of the "Scenic Writing" program at UDK (University of the Arts Berlin), the installation unfolds a nonlinear, hypertextual narrative. Participants deeply engage with various avatars, traversing desolate, post-apocalyptic landscapes marked by extreme cold and heat. Inspired by the internet concept of "backdoors" and the Tibetan Bardo Thodol—a 14th-century manuscript that directs spirits toward rebirth—these vast, labyrinthine worlds challenge explorers.
In a realm devoid of humans and animals, participants discover new facets of their identity in a consequence-free environment. The evolving story is dynamically shaped by Tarot cards, which serve as portals to memories spanning different times, places, and lives. Each Major Arcana card embodies a specific aspect of human experience, imparting spiritual lessons or marking phases of life. Upon awakening in a digital avatar form, participants are greeted with an introductory voice-over that sets the stage for their odyssey.
With the discovery of each card, participants transition into a new avatar, each endowed with its own narrative. This change prompts a voice-over to narrate the forthcoming chapter, enriching the exploration with ever-evolving stories that develop unique dynamics through a series of discoveries. This work invites participants to contemplate their identity and existence within both the digital and mystical realms.
The artwork »Memories of a Future«, designed as a single-player game operated through a game console controller, delves into the complexities of identity within a digital environment. It raises pivotal questions such as the origins of the term "avatar" and how, from a Western perspective, we have appropriated this concept. What remains of the original meaning of avatar, and how does it intersect with mysticism and spiritualism in our understanding of technology? This venture embarks on a quest to trace the historical interconnections between spirituality, technology, hyperreality, play, and liminality.
In collaboration with author Sofiya Sobkowiak from the 15th academic year of the "Scenic Writing" program at UDK (University of the Arts Berlin), the installation unfolds a nonlinear, hypertextual narrative. Participants deeply engage with various avatars, traversing desolate, post-apocalyptic landscapes marked by extreme cold and heat. Inspired by the internet concept of "backdoors" and the Tibetan Bardo Thodol—a 14th-century manuscript that directs spirits toward rebirth—these vast, labyrinthine worlds challenge explorers.
In a realm devoid of humans and animals, participants discover new facets of their identity in a consequence-free environment. The evolving story is dynamically shaped by Tarot cards, which serve as portals to memories spanning different times, places, and lives. Each Major Arcana card embodies a specific aspect of human experience, imparting spiritual lessons or marking phases of life. Upon awakening in a digital avatar form, participants are greeted with an introductory voice-over that sets the stage for their odyssey.
With the discovery of each card, participants transition into a new avatar, each endowed with its own narrative. This change prompts a voice-over to narrate the forthcoming chapter, enriching the exploration with ever-evolving stories that develop unique dynamics through a series of discoveries. This work invites participants to contemplate their identity and existence within both the digital and mystical realms.