10_c_60_PN_Hernan_Figueroa_coverfile_final.pdf (2.15 MB)
The technological invisible — image making and dynamics of power
journal contribution
posted on 2018-04-18, 23:09 authored by Transdisciplinary image ConferenceTransdisciplinary image Conference, Luis Hernan, Carolina Ramirez-FigueroaIn this paper we explore the
dynamics of power involved in the representation of digital devices. We reflect
on a series of images produced by Amazon and Apple and suggest that their role
as instruments of power is not defined by the companies’ financial might. We
argue that these images are bound in a matrix, the locus of which resides in
the representation of the technological
invisible, elements of technology that are supra-sensible such as software,
data, and wireless infrastructure. We use a research
through design approach to analyse how representing invisible aspects of
technology involves a series of decisions, through which agendas are embedded
to influence the way we imagine the technology to operate and integrate in
daily lives. We suggest that these dynamics are not the preserve of
traditionally powerful actors, but that can be used by designers to reimagine
technology.