The Analog Chatroom
Team
Name: Bram van der Heijden
Nationality: Dutch
Institution / Company:
– FINALIST of 2020 Monument Competition
The Analog Chatroom pays tribute to the juxtapositions inherent in online communication. Online communication has become the predominant form of communication. We have never been as interconnected with one another, and it has never been simpler to strike up a conversation. Simultaneously, it is hard to develop meaningful relationships. We often have no idea who we are engaging with online, providing a sense of privacy even though we are closely monitored in our online behaviour.
The plaza simulates online communication in a physical form. The “chat boxes” allow people to talk anonymously with a random stranger by using the speaking tube connected to another chat box. Both chat boxes display matching identifiers when both or either of the seats are taken. The chat boxes are configured in such a way that conversation partners remain out of sight from each other. At the same time, a viewing platform overlooks the plaza so that all communication may be observed by spotting corresponding chat boxes.
The world created within the Analog Chatroom allows for reflection on the merits, drawbacks, and risks of online communication and digital surveillance, and their role in our lives.
#Privacy, Data & Surveillance #Digital vs physical #Integration of Diverse Social Groups #Anonymity vs Exposure #Interconnectivity vs Loneliness
