EAR ART -- SHORT TERM PROJECT

The human ear is the most difficult part of the human body to design for. Its complex geometry and shape variations are as individual as our fingerprints. Newly developed scan technology allows us for the first time ever to create a high resolution CAD file of the ear exterior and internal ear canal. 

For this project, I wanted to take an alternative approach to using this technology to create a provocative art based object. 

First, I decided to experiment with the technology available at the Body Fit Lab at Georgia tech and took sample scans of my ear, and upper torso using the equipment that was available on hand:

I was inspired by the advent of fake news on social media, and how easy it has become to reinforce one's cognitive bias these days by creating echo chambers that only provide you with news you want to hear. I myself am guilty of this bias.

Once my scans were cleaned up, I proceeded to create mini 3D prints that would provide me with a better sense of depth. 

While I was studying and learning about creating objects that our customised to fit. I worked simultaneously on my art piece as well. For my piece, I chose a tape recorder: The idea I was trying to convey was that the social media platform has transformed humans into modern day tape recorders, instead of applying critical thinking and trying to have a real conversation about global issues, people would much rather rage on the internet without consequence.

Using my ear scan as reference, I generated the model which would fit around my ear on AutoDesk Fusion 360:

I proceeded to make a series of 3D prints to test for colour, material and finish:

I decided to paint it with the colours of Facebook as, in my opinion, it is the platform that is to blame for a lot of the rage and intolerance that exists in our society today.

I added emojis for buttons to reinforce the idea that we have become extremely reactive in the age of the internet. Instead of stopping to think twice we just go ahead and hit a react button.

Finally I titled my project: Eat. Sleep. Rage. Repeat

Facebook has transformed people into modern day tape recorders. Humans have sacrificed critical thinking so that they can selectively absorb information that confirms their preconceived notions making it even harder for people to have an intelligent conversation about global issues. 

The installation is up and running @Georgia Tech's Stubbins Gallery in the College of Design with other captivating installations by my colleagues. Come check it out!