2. Digital bodies

Research & Ideation

Marina Abramović's mesmerizing performances, particularly her profound exploration of the human body, have always captivated me.

Her work reflects how the body can be a vessel of emotion, thought, and vulnerability, shaped by an artist's unique mindset.

In this context, "digital bodies" offer a new dimension to how we present and perceive ourselves, expanding the boundaries of traditional human representation.

The fusion of digital fabrication and wearable technology invites us to question not only the physical form but also the mental frameworks we project through it.

Reference & Inspiration

First Reference

"The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk inspired me with its profound exploration of how trauma impacts both the brain and body.

The book reveals how new therapies activate neuroplasticity to help trauma survivors regain control of their lives.

Its central idea—that trauma disrupts our natural ability to process emotions and feel safe in our own bodies—resonates deeply, highlighting the importance of healing through both scientific and human connections.

Second Reference

New digital tools and devices are redefining how we explore and represent the body, not only in the physical world but also in virtual environments.

As we increasingly shift between these two realms, the usual boundaries of time and space blur, prompting us to reconsider our understanding of embodiment. Traditionally, the human body has been a central focus of artistic expression, shaping ideals of beauty, proportion, and aesthetics. Now, as we transition into digital spaces, these representations will evolve. What form will our "digital skin" take in virtual environments?

It may no longer resemble our physical selves, inviting us to push the boundaries of sensory experience and perception. This shift challenges us to rethink the connection between our digital presence and reality, possibly suggesting that we are on the brink of a new phase in human evolution.

As with Marina Abramović’s exploration of the body’s emotional and mental landscapes, this digital transformation encourages us to consider how our identity and experiences will be shaped by this hybridization of physical and virtual worlds.

My philosophy & Inspiration

When I was conceptualizing this project, a verse from the renowned poet Saadi continually resonated with me. The essence of his beautiful words is:

"The human body is noble with a human soul;
This beautiful cloth is not the sign of humanity."

At the same time, I found myself reflecting on the theory of the esteemed psychologist Jeffrey Young. His Schema Therapy proposes that individuals develop distinct mental frameworks, or schemas, shaped by early life experiences. These schemas shape how we perceive the world and respond to various situations throughout our lives.

Young’s theory also includes the concept of schema modes—mental states we shift into, often without realizing it. Some of these modes include:

• Vulnerable Child: Feeling abandoned, helpless, or overwhelmed.
• Angry Child: Feeling frustrated due to unmet needs.
• Impulsive/Undisciplined Child: Acting on impulses without considering consequences.
• Punitive Parent: Harshly criticizing oneself or others.
• Healthy Adult: The mature mindset that balances emotions, sets boundaries, and responds to life’s challenges with wisdom.

The essence of Schema Therapy is to recognize these schemas and modes, heal from past wounds, and strengthen the Healthy Adult mindset to lead a more fulfilling and emotionally balanced life.

It made me think deeply about how, in every moment, we choose which mindset we present to the world. This inner choice can be more influential and impactful than the external choices, like the clothes we wear, yet we often overlook its significance in today’s fast-paced life.

That’s why, in my project, the mannequin’s head represents the continuous choice we make about which mentality we adopt. I aim to demonstrate that this choice is more vital and influential than the clothing we choose—shaping not just our appearance but our entire experience of life.

Materials & Equipment

To implement this project, I utilized a variety of software, equipment, and materials. I opted for cardboard as the main material due to its stability and suitability for laser cutting. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

MakeHuman Software

I began by creating the desired body composition using this tool, allowing for precise customization.

Blender

Afterward, I used Blender to isolate and retain the specific body parts needed for the final composition, removing any unnecessary elements.

Slice for Fusion

Slicer for Fusion 360 provides multiple construction methods, such as stacked, radial, or interlocked slices, allowing you to tailor the design based on your needs.

These techniques can be customized by adjusting parameters like slice thickness, alignment, and orientation to suit the specific project. The material you choose will significantly influence these decisions, as different materials may require varying levels of structural support or flexibility.

For example, cardboard might work better with interlocked slices for stability, while acrylic could be more suited for stacked slices to create a solid, layered effect. Understanding the material's properties is crucial to selecting the right technique for optimal results.

I then sliced the design into different sections, gradually refining it to achieve the final structure.

Corel DRAW

To optimize material usage and minimize waste, I rearranged the layout of the slices in CorelDRAW, ensuring efficient material consumption. Once the files were finalized, they were ready for laser cutting.

Additionally, we had the option to scan the model and use the scanned files for other components, streamlining the process.

Process & work flow

Safety First: Essential Laser Cutter Tips

• Wear Protective Eyewear: Always use laser safety goggles.
• Ensure Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
• Use Safe Materials: Avoid cutting hazardous materials like PVC.

Step 1 - Sampling

Before proceeding with the full implementation of the model, it was crucial to verify the accuracy of the connections. I sampled two of the smallest interlocking parts from the file, as these required minimal material. Fortunately, the first sample proved to be highly accurate and successful.

Step 2 - Laser Cutting

Next, I prepared the laser machine, adjusting the necessary settings in the designated software. With everything in place, I initiated the laser cutting process to produce all the slices

Step 3 - Assembly

Once all the slices were laser-cut and labeled with their corresponding numbers, I proceeded to the final step: assembling the complete model.

Blooming

The exciting moment of assembly had arrived. With the numbered slices in hand, I began piecing the parts together with ease. Initially, I hesitated to press the pieces firmly, worrying I might damage something.

But as I gained confidence, the process flowed smoothly.

Piece by piece, I pressed them securely together, watching as a beautiful and impressive model took shape before me. It was fascinating to witness a new body emerging right beside me.

In the final moment of this mental display, my selfie appears, reflected in a balloon-shaped mirror.

This image serves as the ultimate representation of self, a reminder that the most powerful choices we make are shaped by our mindset and inner world.

It symbolizes a moment of personal transformation—an awakening to the full potential of who we are, blooming into our true selves.