Shape of Memory

https://vimeo.com/415193046

Description

Shape of Memory is an introspective VR piece based around the events leading to my grandparent’s marriage. Central to this narrative is the act of dwelling, waiting, and patience in the face of the unknown – an act that has defined our lives within this global pandemic.

I chose to build out this narrative for two reasons, one as a homage to the past, and two, as a message for the future. My grandfather passed this fall and I developed a tiny ritual of holding this red jade necklace he gave me the last time I saw him. When I hold this necklace, our histories overlay, the conclusion of his illuminating my current state, what seems to be my intermission.

You start this experience by entering my room and sitting at my desk, making sure not to hit your head on the frame of my lofted bed, under which you will sit. Once seated, you turn to face the wall, the headset on a thin white desk that spans the width of the room. To your right, from the undercarriage of my bed frame, hangs the red jade necklace. You put the headset on and the room transforms into it’s virtual self, the majority of the clutter and detail absent. What does remain is the necklace. You go to pull it, both virtually and physically. As you hold onto the necklace, the wall in front of you begins to shift to the side, revealing a long hallway with cloth draped on either side. The narration begins, and you begin to glide slowly down the memory lane of my grandparent’s story, as remembered by my mother in loving detail, and virtually reconstructed and distorted by yours, truly. Although I don't ask you outright, I am curious to know what shapes of memory your loved ones take and the stories that become entwined.

IMA/ITP New York

ITPG-GT.2102.00001

Thesis

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