Osmotic Signals: Troy Innocent 2003
5 track DVD with sound, 3 x slide projections

Electronic spaces are artificial constructions – simulations where the entire virtual world is a code, every part of the space is a re-representation. They allow multiple forms of representation to easily coexist and be blended with one another, creating hybrid systems of signs.

This could be described as a dynamic iconography where every node in a space can potentially be represented in many different ways. The underlying functionality and content may be mapped to different systems of representation. These include a diverse range of forms, such as text, simulation, iconography, diagrammatic, symbolic, figurative and abstract forms. These systems of representation may be given active parameters that can be interconnected, made interactive, or algorithmically generated.

This is a kind of transmutational space, where representation is not fixed, but instead fluid and malleable depending on the relationships established between the numerous parameters. This process is potentially infinite, as these relationships may also be process driven and parameterized, meaning the entire representation of the space is constantly undergoing mutation and change.

Osmotic signals explores this phenomenon by situating a sign system in an abstract electronic space. Meaning is diffused, refracted, amplified, augmented and mutated by signals that pass through this system. A language emerges from patterns in the manipulation of structure and the combination of basic graphic elements to create iconic forms This process could be described as ‘meaning refraction’ as the ebb and flow of streams of digital signals take the sign system from noise to clear communication and back again.

Commissioned by Cube37, Frankston Arts Centre for Brilliant Refraction exhibition series.

track1: org.transmit:

track2: arch.mov

track3: wrt.mach

track4: icon.gen

track5: hyp.a.pil