Interaction : Fantasy Beyond Control and Changing Space

As we near the end of the semester more and more our thoughts and concentrations are focused to that of interactive art. The two readings above stand as great examples of the type of diversity one can achieve when involving your viewer.

Fantasy Beyond control is a great example of what we have discussed before as, 'the hack.' While companies were using Laser Discs as a means for a type of interactive game, artists such as Lynn Hershman saw the potential of it in art. I also feel this stands as a testament to the patience and execution within the realm of digital art. Many people I speak to think that even the mere sound of 'digital art' implies to them lazy art. I believe this steams from their interaction with all things digital, and how digital technology is supposed (as well as other things) make life easier. The logic goes digital = easy. However something like Hershman's Fantasy Beyond control takes a great level of planning and execution to finish. Picking various items in her apartment and thusly all the various story archs that come from THE VIEWER'S choices takes thought and skill.
Anyway...
I agree with her feelings that at this point in time we live in a culture in which people really want to integral parts of narratives. Reality TV is almost the only thing you can stumble upon while flipping through the channels. I think this is good evidence of people wanting to be a part of 'narrative.' if you will. Even thought the level of interaction is still one dimensional I feel as if people enjoy knowing that those are 'real people' on TV. Similarly in Hershman's piece, interacting and choosing things for our main character to do makes you feel as if that person is 'real.' Or, at least I think that's how I would feel about it....and of course with the boost in reality, you feel something quite significant.
Plus the three endings between, destroying the television, committing suicide, or moving to LA is hilarious.

Our second reading developed the idea of audience participation in a much different way. Much different in any of the ways I have thought about making interactive art as well. Hooking a person up to a VR machine and have the visual be based upon ones breathing is absolutely amazing, especially because 99% of the time breathing is no where to be found on people's day to day conscious levels of thinking. Breathing is so automatic that if your breathing becomes quicker, you might not notice your breathing is doing so, but you WILL notice you are becoming nervous (or other such reasons). In a sort of simple and unmasked art sort of way, this piece could teach people to be more aware of their bodies and feelings. Art can be grand but it can also teach us the little things. Start simple.