As of this generation, life without the internet and social media is close to unattainable – Our identities are so closely intertwined as the internet shapes new definitions of relationships, values, and time. So much so that our identities become akin to cyborgs. Digital identities merges with the offline and our real identities. How can we differentiate the two in a healthy way?

“Looking through the blue-lit window” focuses on the deceiving, addicting nature and glorification of social media, and its effects on our cyborg identities. “Looking through rose tinted glasses” is a common phrase often heard in criticism when seeing only the pleasant things within a situation and being ignorant to what lies beyond the pleasant facade. When being on our devices, we look through a window (the tab/UI/UX) that emits blue light. Psychologically, the window distorts our perception of time since blue light has shorter wavelengths with higher energy than other colors and can de-regulate our body’s natural wake and sleep cycles. The window often distorts our values with our behavior towards healthy relationships, lifestyle, and how young people are always comparing our lives to the others that seem more vibrant through social media platforms.

My site-specific art installation uses layered acrylic panels to create a sense of depth for the viewer. I hope the artwork through the use of the repeating window pattern erringly draws the viewer further and further inward. The window is composed similar to a tunnel with every layer an overdose of visual. The colorful sprites spread throughout each layer as if they are reaching out to the audience. The overall installation aims to feel a bit oppressive just like what lies behind the actual computer windows that are monochromatic and scary realities.

This piece is my thoughts to how we should build a healthier relationship with technology as our cyborg identities become more and more inevitable? As a society, we should continually evaluate our relationship with technology by taking a step back from the addictive tunnel of windows. The internet is not inherently a dangerous or negative space however neither is it not completely positive and safe either. As in all technology, these decisions are for individuals to navigate the murky and constantly evolving toys and tech.