Body and Mirrors

Body Interactions

Body interaction encompasses the intricate and dynamic interplay between our physical bodies and the external world. It refers to the multifaceted ways in which we engage, respond, and connect with our surroundings, objects, other people, and ourselves. This concept highlights the profound impact and influence that our corporeal existence has on our experiences, perceptions, and interactions. Our bodies become a vehicle for communication, expressing our intentions, emotions, and desires through the language of movement. The subtle nuances of our body language, gestures, and postures convey messages that often transcend verbal communication. Whether it’s a gentle touch, a confident stride, or a comforting embrace, our bodies communicate

volumes about who we are and how we relate to others. Beyond communication, body interaction manifests in our tactile relationship with the physical world. Through touch, we explore the textures, shapes, and contours of objects and surfaces, allowing our senses to absorb the sensory input and form connections with the material realm. From the smoothness of a polished stone to the roughness of tree bark, these tactile encounters enrich our understanding of the world and deepen our sensory experiences. Moreover, body interaction extends to our connections with other individuals. Through physical proximity, we establish a sense of presence, acknowledging the shared space we occupy. Nonverbal cues, such as eye contact, facial expressions, and

touch, become powerful conduits for empathy, understanding, and intimacy. The more a body interacts, the more is capable of understanding its limitations and sensations. By tuning into our internal landscapes, we gain insight into our emotions, needs, and desires.

The concept of body interaction underscores the profound interconnectedness between our physical selves and the world. It reminds us that we are not isolated entities but rather integrated beings, deeply entwined with our environment, objects, and fellow human beings. Embracing body interaction cultivates a heightened sense of presence, empathy, and self-awareness, fostering a richer and more authentic experience of a full present life.

Exploring the body

The interaction between the body and its surroundings is a fundamental aspect of human experience. Through photography, we can drive into the intricate relationship between the body and the various elements it encounters: space, other people, objects, and even oneself. This exploration sheds light on the dynamic interplay between the physical form and its environment, unraveling stories, emotions, and connections. When we consider the body’s interaction with space, photography becomes a means to capture the essence of the relationship between our physical presence and the world around us. Whether it’s a vast landscape, an urban setting, or an intimate interior, the camera allows us to freeze moments that encapsulate our connection to

these spaces. Using composition, perspective, and the use of scale, we can highlight the intimacy of our interaction with ‘the other’. By capturing gestures, expressions, and interpersonal dynamics, we can immortalize the connections we forge with others. The camera becomes a mediator, capturing the shared experiences, emotions, and stories that unfold in these interactions. Photography has the power to convey the depth of human connection and the significance of these encounters. Furthermore, photography allows us to explore the interaction between the body and objects, unveiling narratives and symbolic meanings. Through the lens, we can document the tactile relationship between the body and the things it touches, manipulates,

or even becomes one with. Lastly, photography becomes a profound tool for introspection, enabling us to explore the body’s interaction with itself. Through self-portraiture and self-exploration, we can document our own physicality, emotions, and personal journeys. The camera becomes a mirror through which we examine ourselves, capturing moments of vulnerability and transformation. In this process, we confront our own identity, delve into our desires, and celebrate the beauty and complexity of our individuality. In essence, body interaction through photography unravels the multidimensional connections we forge with space, other people, objects, and ourselves. It invites us to contemplate the interplay between our physical forms and the world.

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Drawings and experiments

Drawing a one-to-one scale representation of the human body poses numerous challenges, yet it holds significant value in the realm of product design. This practicere precision, an understanding of human anatomy, and the ability to capture lifelike proportions. However, the difficulties encountered in achieving a one-to-one scale drawing are outweighed by the benefits it offers in designing products that cater to the human form.

One of the primary challenges of drawing a one-to-one scale body is accurately capturing proportions. The human body is a complex structure with various interconnected parts, each with distinct sizes and shapes. Translating this three-dimensional form onto a two-dimensional surface without distorting its proportions can be

demanding. Another obstacle lies in conveying the depth and volume of the human body in a scale drawing. Creating a sense of three-dimensionality and accurately representing the roundness, curves, and features necessitates attention. More than that is also important to understand the interplay of light and shadow. Despite these challenges, a one-to-one scale body drawing is immensely valuable in product design. It serves as a foundation for creating products that are ergonomically tailored to the human form. Moreover, a one-to-one scale body drawing enables designers to test the look of their ideas effectively. By visualizing how a product aligns with the human body’s dimensions and movements, it can be possible to identify potential design flaws, refine concepts, and ensure an

optimal fit. This approach helps minimize the need for costly and time-consuming physical prototypes and allows for efficient development processes. By providing insights into the human form’s dimensions, movements, and interactions with objects, these drawings facilitate the development of products that cater to user needs, comfort, and functionality. Along with these drawings, some other research was conducted as an introduction to the subject of body interactions, using different techniques.

One-to-one scale body drawings.

One-to-one scale body-product drawings.

60 drawings in 60 minutes exercise.

Fast body prototype technique using domopack and paper tape.

Collection of textures belonging to personal everyday life.

Research phase

During the research phase, I have explored the fascinating connection between mirrors and the human body, investigating the behavior of physical matter within these reflective surfaces, the distortions they create, and the impact on our perception of self. Mirrors, composed of a reflective surface typically made of glass with a metallic coating, have captivated humanity for their ability to reflect light and create images. However, due to their imperfections, mirrors can introduce distortions that alter the reflected image. Understanding the behavior of physical matter within mirrors provides insights into these distortions.

When we look into a mirror, our perception of the body can be influenced by various factors. Mirrors can subtly change reflection angles or

intentionally introduce distortions through curved or funhouse mirrors, altering our perception of proportions, shapes, and dimensions. These changes challenge our preconceived notions of body image and raise questions about the reliability of reflected images. Mirrors play a significant role in constructing and maintaining our body image. They offer a unique opportunity for self-reflection and evaluation. Our interactions with mirrors range from simple observations of physical appearance to deeper explorations of identity and self-awareness. They serve as a medium through which we observe, analyze, and sometimes critique our bodies, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The perception of the body through mirrors is complex and influenced

by cultural norms, personal experiences, and psychological factors. Mirrors can contribute to body dysmorphia, where individuals perceive their bodies negatively and distortedly, especially when combined with other factors. Conversely, mirrors can also foster self-acceptance and empowerment, enabling individuals to embrace their unique physicality.

Mirrors act as reflections and distortions, shaping our perception of physical identities. By exploring the behavior of physical matter within mirrors and studying the distortions they introduce, we enhance our understanding of how we perceive ourselves and how these perceptions influence our emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being.

Mid-term presentation

Concept developement

Abstract:

In the first few months of life, body and space are perceived as one, until around 6-18 months when the individual is able to recognise himself in the mirror by sight. This creates a fracture that accompanies us throughout our lives: what we see in the mirror is never the totality of our being. The installation brings us closer to the complex idea of the fragmentary nature of the image and the impossibility of achieving a total vision of our body. It is only through fragments that we can get closer to ourselves.

Structure prototypes

Drawings about some details of the structure’s connections

3D printed joints

This part of the documentation delves into the process of joints development, specifically focusing on the creation of ball joints as an alternative design to avoid aluminum welding. Various filaments were utilized during the creative process, with the final joints being printed in black PLA, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. These ball joints were designed to allow mirror plates to move freely in all directions, providing enhanced flexibility and range of motion. Leveraging the capabilities of 3D printing, intricate geometries were achieved, enabling the creation of interlocking parts with precision. To determine the most suitable material for joint production, different ones were tested, for example PETG and resin. Tests with different infills and printing speed have been

tried on the 3D printer to give the joint the right strength of resistance. While these filaments exhibited decent strength and resilience, they did not meet the desired level of precision and smoothness required for ball joints. After rigorous experimentation, black PLA emerged as the filament of choice for the final joint assembly. Black PLA not only offered excellent print quality but also enhanced the visual appeal of the joints. Its ease of use and affordability further contributed to its selection. By utilizing black PLA, the joints achieved the desired precision and aesthetics, marking a significant turing point in the development process.

In addition to the ball joints used as a hinge for mirrors, alternative joint designs were explored to avoid the need for aluminum welding.

Cross-shaped, L-shaped joints were developed, offering viable alternatives that maintained structural integrity and functionality. These designs were carefully optimized using 3D printing techniques to ensure reliable performance and ease of assembly.

The exploration of ball joints and the creation of alternative designs have expanded the possibilities for joint assembly, offering the possibility to move the final structure in multiple directions.

A significant part of the final prototype depends on the design of the final version of the ball joint, which could in the future be redesigned in a metallic material to ensure its durability.

Joints drawings for PLA 3D printing

Concrete base

In the pursuit of creating a structure installation with mirrors that blends art, functionality, and innovation, I found myself contemplating various design possibilities. Among these considerations, the decision to utilize a concrete cubic shape as the base for my metal tubes emerged as a defining choice. This decision had a profound impact on the overall aesthetic and structural integrity of the installation. In the creation of my installation, centered around a complex and intangible topic, I consciously chose to incorporate concrete in the shape of the base. This decision was driven by the desire to establish a connection between the ethereal nature of the subject matter and the tangible reality we inhabit. By selecting a concrete base, I aimed to bridge the gap between

the intangible and the palpable. The installation explores a profound and intricate concept that may seem distant or difficult to grasp. The solidity and physicality of concrete act as a metaphorical anchor, enabling viewers to engage with the abstract ideas by providing a tangible point of reference. It serves as a reminder of the limitations of our reality and helps to contextualize the complexity explored within the installation.

The juxtaposition of the sturdy concrete base against the ethereal elements emphasizes the contrast between the two realms, prompting introspection and deeper reflection.

Mirror installation

The concept behind my project embraces the fascinating relationship between the body, space, and self-perception. It centers around the idea studied by Lacan, that in the early months of life, the body and space are perceived as an inseparable whole. However, around 6 to 18 months of age, an individual reaches a developmental milestone where they can recognize themselves in a mirror and form a cohesive self-image through the sense of sight. It is at this pivotal moment that a fracture occurs, one that accompanies us throughout our lives. What we see in the mirror is never the complete and unified representation of our bodies; instead, it is an amalgamation of numerous fragmented pieces that our mind processes and integrates.

To convey the concept of this frag-

mented self-image, I have created an installation that immerses viewers in the experience of the limitations and complexities of perceiving their own bodies as a cohesive whole. The installation serves as a medium through which individuals can explore the idea of the impossibility of reaching a total and unified vision of our bodies. It prompts us to contemplate the inherent fragmentation and challenges the conventional notion of body interaction as a purely external engagement, inviting us to delve into the internal processes involved in constructing our body image. Within the installation, viewers are provided with a space for introspection and self-reflection. It presents fragmented glimpses and diverse perspectives, By acknowledging that the mirror only reflects a partial representa-

tion of our bodies, we are prompted to question and redefine our understanding of a complete and unified body image. Through engaging with the installation, we are invited to embrace and explore the multitude of elements that contribute to our perception of self. By recognizing the fragmented nature of our self-image, we can appreciate its complexity. It is through the exploration of these fragmented pieces that we can approach a closer and more authentic understanding of who we are. My project aims to deepen our understanding of body interaction by emphasizing the fragmentary nature of our self-image. By immersing viewers in an installation that challenges the notion of a total and unified body vision, it encourages introspection and exploration of the diverse aspects that shape our perception. By piecing together these fragments and actively varying our perception, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery.