Artist Chris Shen has taken 625 discarded remote controls and created a new and very unique TV which uses infrared and is invisible to the naked eye, and only visible using infrared goggles. Watch the video after the jump to learn more about the Infra TV project and see it in action.
“Each of the 625 remote controls is second-hand, without the corresponding TV set”, the artist told SlamXHype earlier this month. “The remotes were discarded, or deemed useless by their previous owner. I will reverse the roles of these devices that are intended to control our TVs, to become the TV itself. By exploring infrared technology, I hope to provide insight into a world that is by its very nature unseen.”
The Concept Behind Infra TV
Chris Shen’s Infra TV is a fascinating exploration of how everyday objects can be repurposed to create something entirely new and thought-provoking. By using 625 remote controls, Shen has not only given these discarded items a new lease on life but has also challenged our perceptions of technology and its applications. The use of infrared technology is particularly intriguing because it operates in a spectrum that is invisible to the human eye. This makes the TV both a piece of art and a scientific experiment, inviting viewers to engage with it in a way that is both interactive and educational.
Infrared technology is commonly used in remote controls to send signals to electronic devices. By repurposing these signals, Shen has created a display that can only be seen through infrared goggles. This adds an element of mystery and exclusivity to the artwork, as it requires a specific tool to be fully appreciated. It also raises questions about the nature of visibility and the unseen aspects of technology that we often take for granted.
Implications and Future Possibilities
The Infra TV project opens up numerous possibilities for future explorations in both art and technology. For instance, the concept of using discarded electronics to create new forms of media could be expanded to other types of devices. Imagine a sculpture made entirely of old smartphones that lights up in response to Wi-Fi signals, or a musical instrument crafted from obsolete computer parts that plays different notes based on Bluetooth connectivity.
Moreover, Shen’s work encourages us to think about the lifecycle of electronic devices and the impact of e-waste on the environment. By repurposing discarded remote controls, he highlights the potential for upcycling and creative reuse, offering a sustainable alternative to simply throwing away old electronics. This could inspire other artists and technologists to explore similar projects, contributing to a broader movement towards sustainability in the tech industry.
The use of infrared technology also has practical applications beyond the realm of art. For example, infrared cameras are used in various fields such as security, medical imaging, and astronomy. Shen’s project could inspire new ways to utilize this technology in creative and innovative ways, potentially leading to advancements in these fields.
Source: Verge
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