Plastic components and circuit boards (20cmx20cmx20cm)

Numerous research studies illustrate that technology alters human physiology and it is also presenting a number of ethical and moral questions about our relationships, and society as a whole.

This artwork focuses on the impact of technology on the human brain. The digitally manipulated images of the brain scans used in the video
'REFLECTION' (WARNING: this video contains flashing images) illustrate the areas of the brain that are stimulated when exposed to internet use.

Our brains have 2 sides, or ‘hemispheres’. In the artwork, pieces of circuit boards have been deliberately positioned in specific areas of the skull - the left side is concerned with language, number skills, reasoning, scientific skills, spoken language and right-hand control. The left side is the hub of language, where you 'assemble' the words and sentence structure. If you're mostly analytical and methodical in your thinking, you're said to be 'left-brained'. The right side is more visual and deals with images more than words.

If you tend to be more creative or artistic, you're thought to be 'right-brained'. Short-term memory is thought to be stored in in the right side, and long-term memory in the left.

The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and is composed of right and left hemispheres. It performs higher functions like interpreting touch, vision and hearing, as well as speech, reasoning, emotions, learning, and fine control of movement.

The mirrors on the inside, and outside, of the box are to 'reflect' yourself when you look at the work and question how you interact with technology, not just internet use. Ultimately, the artwork is questioning ‘if technology has the ability to make us think, feel and even dream differently, is it fundamentally changing who we are? Are we losing sight of what makes us human?’

Are you reflected in the artwork?