Stop Motion Studies - Series 11

It is said that 90% of human communication is non-verbal. In these photographs, the body language of the subjects becomes the basic syntax for a series of animations exploring movement, gesture, and algorithmic montage. Many sequences document a person’s reaction to being photographed by a stranger. Some smile, others snarl, still others perform. Some pretend not to notice. Underneath all of this are assumptions and unknowns unique to each situation.

The Stop Motion Studies extend my long-standing interest in narrative and, in particular, look at the subway as a stage upon which social dynamics and individual behavior are increasingly mediated by digital technology.
As one of the most vibrant and egalitarian networks in our cities, subways bring people from a wide range of social and cultural backgrounds into close contact with each other. This process plays a significant role in shaping both the character of a city as well as our individual identities.

All imagery was shot in Tokyo, Japan between 8:50 AM and 10:10 AM on October 29, 2003. Sequences appear in the order they were shot in. Thanks to Steve Dietz, Jo-Anne Green, Helen Thorington, and the people of Tokyo. As part of SMS-Tokyo, SMS-11 is a 2003 commission of New Radio and Performing Arts, Inc., for its Turbulence Web site. It was made possible by a grant from the LEF Foundation.

To view this project, you’ll need the following free software: Netscape or Explorer 5.0+ & Flash 6.0+