Virtual Self Portraits
Virtual Self Portraits are abstract, real-time models of their owner; remote, dynamic portraits.
The systems are composed of two elements linked by telephone. One element, the control element, remains in the owner's home. The second element, similar to that pictured here, is the actual dynamic portrait. This is placed wherever the owner wishes. It can be across the room, across the city or across the country. Each element needs only power and continuous access to a phone line.
The dynamic portrait contains a digital counter and a motorized scale. A small red light beats out the passing seconds using a heartbeat pattern. Each day the machine increments the digital counter. Once a year it tips the scale one degree.
To use the system, the owner enters a private code into their control unit at least once every thirty days. Once a month the portrait element calls the control element and checks to see whether the code has been updated within the past thirty days. If so, the portrait calls back again in another month. If not, it permanently ceases to function. In this way the system forms a dynamic, living, breathing model of its owner.
As with all Time Systems, a variety of custom variants are available and collaborative commissions are welcomed. Contact me with your idea!