Ozeanisches Gefühl (oceanic feeling), 2019
Single-channel HD video with sound 00:10:00 (loop), infrared heater, wind machines, and Arduino
Rogue waves (also known as monster waves or freak waves) are large, unexpected, and suddenly-appearing surface waves that can be extremely dangerous, even for large ships such as ocean liners. They present a considerable danger for several reasons: they are rare, unpredictable, and can crash down with tremendous force. For a long time, rogue waves were considered to be sea monsters of maritime tales. There are many studies about rogue waves: however, the exact dynamics of their formation remains unclear. This is an important question to answer, because we will only be able to foresee rogue waves when we understand their causes. In fact, the correct prediction of future events is a crucial scientific domain, which has preoccupied human societies throughout millenia. Not only are rogue waves or observations of the outside world a major scientific endeavor, but the prediction of internal events, such as affective states, also holds major promise. There are many reports about people being overwhelmed by sudden waves of anxiety or fear. In the majority of cases, a grave, immediate stressor or threat to life is inapparent. A sea monster of maritime tales would hardly pose a threat in reality, but the experience of fear and anxiety definitely can.
In this project, I attempted to create a space where the viewer can experience overwhelming cognitive and physical aspects of fear. This work consists of a video projection, poem narration “Waves of Fear”, and simultaneous manipulation of room temperature. The video is a careful 3D-reconstruction of oceanic waves, with increasing frequency of appearing rogue waves. The poem explores my own experiences with fear, in which others may see a reflection of themselves. The room temperature is manipulated in sync with the video projection and narration. For this piece, I worked with a marine engineer in order to better understand rogue waves and recreate realistic wave-shapes and patterns. I also cooperated with a psychologist and a neurologist to clearly grasp the mental and physical responses to the experience of fear.
KAHEE JEONG 