Synopsys

Atalaia was developed around a media art object I created, and consists of a positive feedback loop that is achieved through a CCTV Camera and a lit-up CRT television connected to it Watchtower is a project with two parts that were developed in parallel:

    A film created in collaboration with two other artists (Leonor Saraiva and Marta Canais) by manipulating this object, the deliberate influence on the visuals generated and, consequently, the viewer's perception. The hands that operate the camera and the controls are consciously influencing what we see on screen and how the two screens differ. It deals with the connection between the visuals we see and the fabrication of the images.

    An installation consisting of one screen, the camera and a bright light source; when the observer approaches the installation the light that shines on them is reflected on the television screen and that reflection consequently introduces light to the feedback loop. The observer’s presence influences the work and they recognise themselves in it. What the observer sees on the screen is a visual generated by their presence, and only they have access to it.

Atalaia is a Portuguese word that loosely translates to Watchtower. A high vantage point for surveillance and control. Who stands at the top, watches over us and controls the images we see? This project speaks about the world behind the curtain, how institutions and the media frame and display the images we are shown. It questions these hands that control the screens - To whose bodies are they attached? - and how does our background influence the way we connect with the images we see?

Technical Information

Direction and Production:

João Henrique Viegas

Leonor Saraiva

Marta Canais

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Editing:

João Henrique Viegas

Leonor Saraiva

Marta Canais

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Sound Design:

João Henrique Viegas