How it works:
Each viewer will be able to enter a space, step in front of a webcam, and, by stepping on buttons on a mat, be able to change their digital identity.
I have written a live video capturing color-tracking program in Processing code. Running along with this program is Arduino code that allows for on button press to track a series of PNG files to the specific color (blue) being tracked on the video.
These PNG files are faces of well-known figures. Behind the audience member will be a green screen. Along with stepping on a button and having a face track over your own, the background will change to the natural environment of the new identity.
Concept:
This installation will give audience members the opportunity to change their identity with a single motion.
A person’s identity takes a lifetime to establish. A plethora of memories, emotions, and opinions come with the sight of a single face, but what happens when you can change that identity instantly? And what happens when the new identity that you choose is a well-known figure?
It is my contention that by seeing yourself with another person’s face, you are, at least on some level, temporarily losing your own identity and taking on another, already established one. People emulate their favorite celebrities and political figures every day. Now they can take this idolatry to the next level and virtually become them.
It’s all about choice; each of us has made choices that have established our personal identities. Now you are given the choice to undo all of that and literally take someone else’s identity.
The breakdown:
1) Put on the provided blue mask
2) Step in front of the projection and webcam (with a green screen behind you)
3) Step on a button with a celebrity’s face and notice that on the projection, that face is now being tracked on top of the mask you are wearing. The green screen has also changed to the natural environment of the well-known figure
4) Step on a different face and repeat the process
5) Interact with the installation by taking on the aspects of the identity that you now possess. Allow yourself to virtually become them and exhibit their characteristics
6) Before leaving the installation, step on the “Clear” button so the next viewer shares the same experience.
