This project begins with the recognition that digital data, despite its ubiquity and utility, is inherently fragile. Drawing from both historical perspectives, we propose that the reliance on digital storage may result in archaeological bias in the future. In response to this situation, predecessors have proposed several methods, which can be broadly categorized into two types: digital and off-digital. However, neither type breaks through the core difficulty of preserving the essential condition of our digital culture—that is, not only safeguarding data content from the risks of digital storage, but also transmitting how data is accessed and interpreted in the present. Facing this issue, we utilized a practice-based research methodology, and our kinetic creation 01110100 01101111 was developed as a part of our research. 01110100 01101111 is a custom digital image system consisting of an encoder and a decoder. The encoder processes digital images by applying low-resolution and grayscale discretization, encoding them into a low-level storage format in which each pixel is recorded with 2 bits. This data is then physically documented on paper tapes. On the other hand, the decoder—built using an electronic circuit structure based on 74HC595—is designed to decode and display the images using a progressive scan rendering. This project proposes an alternative strategy in response to the threat that our generation may become archaeologically illegible. Through the practice, the project reveals the potential of preserving not only the video images themselves, but also the processes through which present humanity decodes and renders information intelligible.

Authors:
Wei-Cheng Hsu, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan
Yu-Fang Lai, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan
Chih-Yung Chiu, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Yu Fang Lai is now pursuing a master’s degree in Integrative Design and Media at New York University. Originally from Taiwan, her work spans interactive installations, VR sound design, and other explorations at the intersection of multimedia.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yu-fang-lai

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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