Relationships Between Physical & Virtual Spaces

"The notion that physical space can be 'replaced' by an on line environment suggests that traditional forms of social engagement have been superseded."

The virtual world of social networking and micro-blog sites such as Facebook and Twitter exist in a non physical space which rapidly expands everyday as users input data into the system and communicate with other users of the medium. Users are now invited to 'check-in' or 'location tag' themselves, their tweets, their photos, their events and activities, increasingly so with the use of GPS on smart phones. This one example begins to demonstrate the interesting link between the virtual world inside our computer systems and engagement with 'real' world spaces and events.

This interactive music video by Arcade Fire uses developing technologies such as HTML 5, and Google mapping services including Goodle Earth and Streetview. Images of real world spaces are utilised by the software to autonomously synthesise a dynamic music video experience based on location data entered by the viewer.

This video is really impressive and interestingly combines technology, location information, space and the idea of mobility within a part virtual, part real personalised experience for every user.

http://www.thewildernessdowntown.com/

(make sure that you have the latest version of your browser software installed, Safari seems to work best)