Elegantly Archival: Artifacts, Archives and Tangibility In Dynamic Media

Nicole Tariverdian, MFA ’12

thesis abstract

In general, human interactions with technology remain flat in comparison to the sensorial and tactile nature of “lower” technology interfaces that require a more engaging use of our hands such as reading a book, processing and printing photographs from film, and engaging in analog crafts such as weaving or letterpress printing. Digital technologies are powerful because they provide easy rapid access to extensive amounts of data. I am interested in creating tactile, interactive systems that bridge analog and digital experience.

I believe all artifacts (objects or images) connect to memory on some level. Frequently an artifacts’ initial meaning fades over time due to its abandonment or separation from the original owner. Through recontextualization, documenting, archiving and framing artifacts, memories can be accessed or reassigned. Shifting the relationships between artifacts dynamically transforms the message conveyed. The associations between artifacts and the environment create meaning. This perceived meaning is influenced by a participant’s personal experiences. In some cases participants’ perceived meaning transforms further into story.

In my past work, as an artist, I assumed the role of curator having full control over the artifacts and their meanings. Interaction encourages a shift in curatorial power from the creator to the user forming a shared curatorial role. Users inherit partial authorship of the story by interacting with the work. Through the combined use of the camera, artifacts, and sensors, I design interfaces that speak to areas of performative curation, archiving, and storytelling. My work introduces an innovative perspective on art and design that combines the powers of interaction, technology and tactility.

Download “Elegantly Archival: Artifacts, Archives and Tangibility In Dynamic Media” (PDF, 3 MB).