I am often inspired by psychology and various disciplines within the
humanities, as well as multisensory video performance. My latest work
references ideas of cognitive psychology, specifically cognitive
dissonance, distortion, double-consciousness, and catastrophizing. It
uses the mixing of analog video and audio as a metaphor for these
mental processes and focus on the feeling of discord as each signal
fights for airtime. An incessant stream of images and messages assault
our consciousness on a minute-by-minute basis, during which our egos
attempt to reach equilibrium. This conflicting information must be
processed in order for the individual to function in society. These
expectations and demands have deep cultural roots that seemingly
pre-exist media outlets, but are reinforced by them just the same. My
work deals with this discomfort, which is not limited to a mere moment
but is instead ever-present. We often live in a constant state of
mental anxiety and chaos, a cacophony of stimuli and expectations.
This translates into the breakdown of the image, which ironically can
produce formally pleasing results. Glitch art is often described as
the moment when technology is made transparent, or when “the machine
reveals itself.” I use this framework to mirror a psychological
state, while also referencing previous movements such as Dada and
Fluxus. I am also inspired by VJ performance and DIY culture. I use
mostly outdated technology because it highlights the contrast between
our desire for the newest and greatest and the availability of the
obsolete.
