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11/03/07<br / >
Post 007: 3 Questions on Drift Net<br / >
Mood = curious<br / >
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<p> 3 Questions on Drift Net </p>

<p>1. How did you conceive this idea for Drift Net? What is your purpose or intention behind such a concept? </p>

<p>Drift Net was inspired by the various happenings on the blogosphere over the last one year in Singapore. Suddenly, bloggers find themselves in the spotlight: from being charged for making seditious comment online, to becoming instant celebrity TV host. I was intrigued by the nature of blogging, how our lives are modified and how we live within this virtual landscape of desire. The intention of Drift Net is to look at the various possibilities of the blogging culture as a form of reflection and dialogue. One of the most interesting ideas of blogging in Singapore is how our big brother tries to keep pace with technology, trying to control something that is designed for freedom of expression.</p>

<p>2. Do you think that the audience will be distracted by the technical effects, and not grasp the signification that you want to convey through your work? </p>

<p> I would think that elements like muscle sensors, LED lights programming and interactive audio-visual are not just technical effects. They are more than “effects” for me, the appropriations of such elements are equally important in my creative process. These elements are my virtual performer, in addition to the physical performer or live musician. For me, these elements are performative in their own ways and I see it as an extension of the performing body, with tangible and intangible presence. Thus the integration of such elements would not distract, they are expressive tools that convey the significance of the content. </p>

<p> 3. The popularity of blogging has seemed to raise the notion of “re-examining the rules” – that of the changing perceptions of self. How much of Drift Net addresses this and what do you think will be the impact of this on society? </p>

<p> Drift Net as a performance is not meant to be didactic in imposing our thoughts on the audience. What we would like to present is the concept of these changing perceptions in an audio/visual form onstage. Perhaps the performance poses questions to the netizens about their virtual mode of communications and living. Will they ever forget what physical contact feels like? How real is this virtual existence? The performance can also be a work that speaks to people who have no idea what blogging is all about, and suggests the fascination and potential of blogging, and its implications. </p>

<p>Interview conducted by Gavin Liow from Art Jam <br />
(A publication of Nanyang Technological University Cultural Activities Club)</p>