Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/13752
Title: Digital performance: how representations of physical and virtual bodies inform identity construction/deconstruction
Authors: Ren, Helenna
Advisors: Broadhurst, S
Keywords: Digital performance;Autobiography;Identity;Dab-lab technology and performance;Bodybox drama dance performing arts
Issue Date: 2015
Publisher: Brunel University London
Abstract: The aim of this research is to develop an in-depth analysis of interactive digital performance. It investigates how identities are constructed and deconstructed by exploring the core subjects of physical and virtual bodies. I examine both my collaborative involvement with the Dap-Lab and my own creative practice in Body Box, and I interrogate how within these practices the relationships between real, imagined and virtual identities are realized. My analysis is based on 'Practice as Research', using qualitative methodologies. Here I examine qualities that emerge from embodied and digital practice by means of devising and performance making. I started with performance body and contextualised with other performance. The above choreographic performance/installations are used as case studies to demonstrate my methodologies. The collaborative practice with Dap-Lab, investigates virtual and real bodies in relation to interactive Musion three dimensional systems by incorporating wearable sensors and sensor technology in the performance. Along with primary research data gained from my own above devised performance, digital identities and multiple selves are examined through digital performance practice, specifically by exploring the core subject of the screen/body interface. In the practical element, sensors and computer technologies enable live interaction and modulation between the physical performer and the virtual surrogate in a series of increasingly complex responsive surroundings. By creating software and interactive video that generates digital doubles, multiples and surrogates, the research explores both physical and virtual bodies’ embodiment and identity. Both theory and practice suggest a deeper engagement with the multiple selves/identities which can be constructed and deconstructed in digital performance, and in interdisciplinary or digital multimedia art forms.
Description: This thesis was submitted for the degree of Master of Philosophy and awarded by Brunel University London.
URI: http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/13752
Appears in Collections:Business and Management
Dept of Arts and Humanities Theses

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