Mediated Touch

custom arcade cabinet, virtual environment created in Unreal Engine 5, 73”x32”x32”

Mediated Touch examines the similarities between objects that distance consumers and material of consumption. In response to the collection of Georgian silver sugar tongs, I have encapsulated a series of cellphones in cast hard candy sugar cubes. This work draws a parallel between the distance that those who used sugar tongs in the past and contemporary people have from the problematic production of our consumer goods. The use of the tongs to move the sugar from the bowl to their tea means the user never made physical contact with the sugar. Similarly, we rely on precious metals to make our devices function, and these devices are designed so that we, the consumers, should never see or touch the inner working parts. This distance allows for comfortable consumption, as well as creating a distinction between those who touch the raw products and those who enjoy the consumer goods.