“NeuroMedia” presented by Scott
Symposium:
Session Title:
- Sensing Media
Presentation Title:
- NeuroMedia
Presenter(s):
Venue(s):
Abstract:
The author claims that an informed and critical use of mediated technology can be combined with scientific investigation to construct new metaphorical interpretations which can raise public awareness. The results are interactive interpretations, which not only compliment the essential components of neural behaviour (contraction, adhesion, expansion, and retraction) but transform into a type of new knowledge and hence constitute a novel trans-disciplinary practice that the author calls: Neuro-Media. The main aims of Neuro-Media are to generate a high level of discussion within the scientific community itself, encourage collaboration between diverse individuals working in relation to neurobiology and create a transitional space between the artist, the scientific researcher and the public space.
This particular paper explores the combination of scientific research with media art about human eye disease and retinal behaviour in order to demystifying neurobiology for the general public. It includes a case study (1) as well as an example of Neuro-media (2). The case study is about the high incidence of glaucoma in the developing countries of Asia. This development is a great humanitarian loss, as blindness caused by the more common form of Glaucoma (open angle glaucoma) is largely preventable with access to existing medical technology. The study, conducted by Department of Ophthalmology, National University of Singapore, concludes that incidence of glaucoma in the Chinese community of Singapore itself is also definitely on the increase. A specific example of Neuro-Media entitled: The Electric Retina (2008) will be used as an example to reflect upon the research agendas of neurobiology researchers to combat diseases like Glaucoma. This mediated sculpture attempts to raise awareness about the relation between visual scientific research evidence and human disease. Through exhibition in popular science shows (“Parcours des Wissens”, 2008) the Electric Retina allows the public to gain a deeper insight into the genetic control of visual system development and function by analysis of zebra fish mutants-the main animals used for research in human eye disease. It uses interactive film to trace the evidence of this research and projected films to show how visual impairment can affect the animal’s behaviour.
By combining these case studies in specific Asian communities with actual scientific research and artistic interpretation, the author traces the impact that Neuro-Media could have on the future of human health and the raising of public awareness.
With special thanks to: The Neuhauss Lab, Esp: Corrine Hodel, Prof. Dr. Stephan Neuhauss, Melody Huang, Oliver Biehlmaier, Colette Maurer, Markus Tschopp, Marion Haug.
