left hand v right hand
For micro project 3, we were tasked to create a collaborative performance that involves split-screen video chat features on social media. We decided to use the group video chat feature on Instagram as we were already familiar with the platform.
Our initial plan was to form a face using parts of our face to perform a series of facial expressions.
This was hard to execute as we were not able to “connect” our faces together on the group chat to form a face. We then decided to tell a narrative about a pair of hands, and how the owner is unable to control them and is more like a spectator instead.
We performed it in the ADM building at different locations and coordinated our movements based on what we see on our screens. We synced our screens to show the same position before we started the performance. The objective of this performance was to entertain our viewers and also to see if we could coordinate without being physically next to each other.
Our performance tells the story of the two hands, with one being playful and the other being more obedient. Our groupmate positioned on the top of the screen is the owner of the hands, while the rest of us acted as the hands of the owner. The owner acts as if she is a spectator of her own hands by showing her emotions through her facial expressions. The hands are able to cross boundaries (the screens) as they punch and wrestle each other. Even though we were all in different places, all three of our screens connected as one to form the third space.
The performance was improved with sound effects from the Superzoom feature on Instagram. The combination of sound and the video helps to tell the story in a more entertaining way.
Our performance had a simple storyline but it is hard to execute as we had a limited amount of time. Even though we had rehearsed multiple times, the video still had mistakes as it was hard to coordinate through the third space. Firstly, we were not able to connect the hands properly as the dimensions of our phone are different, and it was hard to see if we were connected properly through our own screens as we were positioned in an awkward position physically. Secondly, we were only communicating through the screen, so it was hard to direct each other on the positioning of our hands through only verbal instructions. Even though we were not able to connect the hands as expected, we were happy with the outcome as we managed to bring some laughter to the class with our performance. We were still able to tell the story despite the difficulties.
This performance made me think about the possibilities of collaboration with people from all over the world. In this day and age, there is no need for creators to be present physically to collaborate together. We are able to interact with each other through the internet where we can share ideas and create new things that challenge our current outlook of the world, improving our everyday lives. We are now not limited to our locations as we can all collaborate through the third space online (which can be platforms which are already readily available to us, e.g. social media, online telecommunication platforms)
reflection
Out of all the 3 Micro-Projects, Which project did you feel you had the most creative control? Why?
Personally, I feel that in terms of the intended outcome of the micro-projects, it would be micro-project 3. Our group and I planned, rehearsed, and performed what we set out to do. Even though it was group work, I felt that we had the same vision of performing the final piece together, therefore still being able to control the outcome of our work.
As for micro-project 1, we were not able to control the final outcome of the #1010adm third space, and the final collection of secrets in micro-project 2 which was not contributed from us.
In terms of creativity, I feel that micro-project 1 gave me the least control as we were only limited to ADM and also had a time limit. Even though the pictures did give us a sense of belonging to the place, the pictures on the #1010adm gives off a feeling that they were rushed.
Which project had the most unpredictable outcome? Why?
Micro-project 2 has the most unpredictable outcome as there were different creators to the artwork namely, us (the group members), and our respondents (strangers + our followers). We were not able to control the answers of the participants as it was their own experiences. The outcome for micro-project 1 was predictable because we were all tasked to shoot at the same place where we are all familiar with. Many of the pictures that we have shot are ideas that we have thought of, therefore being able to relate to the third space. The outcome for micro-project 3 was the most predictable as we planned and rehearsed for it.
Which project best illustrates the concepts of DIWO & Open–Source? Why?
Micro-project 1 best illustrates the concepts of DIWO (Do It With Others) and Open-source as it is a collaboration among the ADM students who are using the #1010adm hashtag. It is DIWO as we worked together to create a third space on Instagram posting pictures which are unique to different creators. It is open-source as anyone can create an Instagram account, post a photo hashtagging #1010adm, contributing to the third space. Anyone can also view and comment on the posts, and can alter the entire space just by posting or removing a photo.