Narcissurveillance

Abstract

What do we see when we look at a digital reflection of self? What do others see? Humans have had a long history of interest in their own image but now that interest extends to others; not at a social level but to one with capitalistic interest. The public is documented both by its own narcissistic drive, on social media platforms, and by the surveillance systems that are gradually networking their way through the urban landscape. Sitting in both of these technologies is software designed to detect and often recognise the facial features of the subject. Using open source facial detection software housed in a utilitarian object, this research project will look for creative ways to bring about a dialogue on the collection, distribution, and ultimate use of the public individual’s image.