Janne Ahola: Counterparts
Counterparts aims to disclose how vanishing is the line between virtual and physical worlds. Bridge through these two realities is made possible by the playful variation of projected shadows and highlights.
Since the 90s, the internet has become an integral part of our lives, a ‘place’ where much of our time slips away unnoticed. Both our responsibilities and leisure activities guide us, but the line between work and play has become increasingly blurred.
The idea for Counterparts was to create a calm, lifelike effect that seems believable but is actually impossible. It gently blends the line between reality and digital art and encourages us to reflect more deeply on the evolving relationship between our physical world and the rapidly advancing digital realm.
The 21st century is a pivotal era where entire generations struggle to keep pace with technological changes. It’s worth thinking about which activities should be maintained with human contact, as it questions the value of personal interaction in our increasingly digital world.
Multimedia Designer, b. 1984, lives in Helsinki, Finland
Information
Artwork finished in:
2017
Which kind of light sources and what other materials and equipment are used? Video projection, 3D Animation.
Please provide the dimensions of the work. Approximate size will do. Please mention if the work can be adjusted. (width-height-depth): Size is adjustable according to current budget and available space, preferably a minimum of 3 meters by 1 meter.
Please provide the dimensions of the work for mailing / sending. Approximate size will do: ---
Electricity consumption: Standard mains current (10A/16A).
Does the artwork use sound? Ambient sound.
Support and other structures: The work needs support structures, hanging points, or similar.
Please state which structures, hardware or other equipment is needed from the client: Professional-level video projector suitable for the location's measurements and ambient light. The artwork uses negative space as a medium, so the location should be dimmed and as dark as possible. Media player if possible, but not necessary. PA system if using audio is feasible.
Minimum height of the space: ---
Minimum square meters of the space: ---
Requirements for the space: darkness, temperature, colouring (light / dark / specific colour / other) etc.: The artwork uses negative space as a medium, so the location should be dimmed and as dark as possible.
Building time and people required (estimate): 1 day / one person.
Artist's presence: Guidance can be provided for building.
Seen before at: Reflektor Art Festival, Vantaa 2023, Talven ja valon juhla, Heinola 2023, WeeGee Exhibition Center, Espoo, 2022, SLUSH Tokyo, Japan, 2019, Carnival Of Lights, Helsinki, 2018, Polar Night light Festival, Ruka, 2017