Paraplace Images
The geodesic dome conjures up utopian visions of future worlds and alternative living. But is it really a purely utopian concept? The geodesic dome design was popularised by Buckminster Fuller in the 1960’s and 1970’s and was adopted by groups as divergent as the military to the hippies. Inspired to create a new form of architecture for the benefit of all mankind, Buckminster Fuller certainly had utopian ideas. However, his utopian vision also rested on the possibility of a dystopian event. The dome therefore sits in both camps, utopian and dystopian, and this, along with its aesthetic appeal, makes it a captivating subject.
The dome is a product of technological progress, and just as the dome personifies future worlds of hope and despair, so too does technology. Technology is becoming more and more pervasive, we are both benefiting and suffering from its impact. From Alexa listening to our conversations to the tracking of our movements via phones and credit cards, the cost of inclusion within society is its impact on our privacy. But if you have nothing to hide, what are you worried about? You could don a Tin Foil Hat, but that’s just crazy talk ….
My intention is to use the concept of utopia as a critical tool, to raise a mirror to societies inescapable truths. The scales have fallen from the eyes of society. The myth of progress associated with the grand utopian narratives from which the geodesic dome was born, and societies ambivalence to technology, is perhaps more visible now. The aim of these works is to draw the viewer in, make them question their reality and to consider what the future may hold.
Paraplace I – Installation Video
Paraplace II – Installation Video