Reality Checking Device

Reality Checking Device (2008) is an interactive machine which offers, on its mirrored surface, statistical information on the current trends of paranoid concern: plane crashes, terrorist attacks, gun crime, bird flu etc.
The work presents a surface where (physical) reflexion, (psychical) reflection, and (statistical) projection converge: the outline of our self-image is one traced by unfounded fears.

Emily Zimmerman 11/2010

Graphic

A poetic information machine that confronts people with their own self and their personal anxieties.
Common risk scenarios are represented by two conjunct circles. The circles grow from a centre line to the upper and lower parts of the mirror. The size of the upper circle indicates the degree of PUBLIC OUTRAGE, the size of the lower circle represents the level of ACTUAL THREAT within a risk scenario.

Function

Sliding the finger along the touch panel reveals the animated information graphic on the mirror. The latest fear stories and popular danger situations are directly opposed to statistical data.

Photo by Kris Qua

Exhibitions

Z33 – House for Contemporary Art, Hasselt BE (2011) / Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media And Performing Arts Center, Troy, New York (2010) / Piksel Fest, Galleriet 3,14, Bergen NO (2010) / KOP Foundation, Breda NL (2009) / Royal College of Art, London (2008)



Book publications

:output 12 (2010)

Mixed media (MDF box, acrylic mirror, touch interface, computer screen, microcontroller) and software (Java Applet/Processing). Dimensions: h 160 cm x w 42 cm x d 18 cm / 35 kg. Java code by David Muth.