MARTINNOVAK

VIRE

"VIRE - Virtual Interpersonal Reality Emitter" introduces a multimedia installation that marries sound and video to investigate the ever-evolving landscape of human interaction in the digital age. The title itself encapsulates the core themes explored within the installation. "Virtual Interpersonal Reality Emitter" aptly encapsulates the essence of this creation by synthesizing virtual reality, interpersonal connections, and the transmission of an alternative reality.

Drawing inspiration from the transformative impact of modern technology on interpersonal dynamics, this work delves into the evolving ways in which we connect and communicate. Within the realm of "VIRE," a distinct transition from tangible, person-to-person communication to a realm shaped by electronic and digital media is artfully articulated.

The installation comprises four screens and four speakers, all arranged in a symmetrical configuration that fosters a unique immersive experience. At the heart of this installation lies a web chat conversation among four unrelated individuals who, beyond the digital realm, remain strangers. The viewer, taking on an active role integral to the artwork, becomes an active participant in this intricate interplay.

The interactivity of "VIRE" is a key element that sparks engagement. Motion sensors are cleverly integrated into the experience, connecting the viewers' movements to the unfolding narrative on screen. Each screen corresponds to a specific motion sensor, requiring synchronized activation from at least two gallery visitors for the conversation between the chat room participants to manifest visibly and audibly. The dynamic interdependence between viewers mirrors the essence of real-time, in-person connections, emphasizing the unique nature of shared physical space.

To fully unlock the entirety of the chat conversation—comprising all four participants—a collective effort is imperative. A quartet of individuals must occupy the gallery space simultaneously, reaffirming the concept of personal interdependency that thrives exclusively in genuine real-time and real-space interactions. Yet, even within this framework, the solitary observer remains an essential element, capable of experiencing the installation in solitude, offering a nuanced perspective on the complex interplay between technology, isolation, and the pursuit of meaningful connection.