37°C - work in progress (2008)



Project Description:
37°C is an installation set of 5 objects based on the scale and weight of human organs and other internal body parts. The project idea derives from my ongoing interest in the human body - its shape, functionality, exigencies, requirements and limits.
The shape of each object was first computer modeled, then transferred into a solid piece. A heat-producing device is located inside of each object. The objects accumulate energy from an electrical network until their own temperature matches the temperature of the human body, never exceeding 37°C. Once they reach this point, they keep the temperature for a certain amount of time (according to the temperature of the surrounding space) after which the accumulation process starts again - thus the objects have their own life cycle.
The objects are meant to be touched but are not directly interactive. They attract visitors by their shape, color and skin-like topcoat material. The use of black color does not indicate a certain race or breed but points to the fact that human organs are not directly exposed to the daylight, but mostly function in a relatively dark environment - inside the human body.
The work offers tactile experiences, not a common characteristic of the visual arts. Visitors are encouraged to get in direct physical contact with the artwork and gain unique experiences when touching each object. The direct physical contact creates a special atmosphere of intimacy and privacy between the visitor and the artwork.

Each object is equipped with an RFID chip hidden inside. The chip holds data about the work such as title, artist name, year of development, etc. and the unique ID of the object within the series. Thus the chip is equivalent to a digital signature and also protects the work.



Dimension:


Material & Media:
Imitation leather, foam, plastic, electrical heating device, timer, RFID chips