Digital Synopticon
"Foucault's Panopticon articulates a theoretical framework of power and surveillance, wherein individuals are subjected to a state of conscious and permanent visibility, effectively regulating their behaviour through perceived omnipresent observation. Building upon this foundational concept, American scholar Mark Poster explores how the advent of the internet and the proliferation of databases have further complicated power dynamics in a postmodern context, effectively blurring the lines between private and public spheres and giving rise to what he terms the "Super Panopticon."
In a similar vein, contemporary anxieties surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) mirror these concerns, as many individuals perceive AI as an invasive force that penetrates their personal lives and surveils their activities, much like the mechanisms of big data. However, it is imperative to recognize that we possess the agency to influence the architects of this Super Panopticon，because we are the agency.
In work, "The Viewer Society: Michel Foucault's 'Panopticon' Revisited" (1997), Mathiesen introduces the concept of the Synopticon, or the "surveillance of the few by the many," suggesting a reciprocal dynamic in which power is not solely concentrated in the hands of the few but is subject to scrutiny by the collective. The internet and databases, while formidable tools of surveillance, are not self-sustaining entities; they necessitate substantial human experience and engagement.
As sentient beings, our innate spontaneity and complexity are not easily comprehended by AI, which processes information and perceives the world through fundamentally different paradigms. This underscores the unique position of humans to critically engage with and potentially reshape the mechanisms of digital surveillance.”
![]()
Some analyses revealed that public discussions are influenced by user occupation and the specific generative AI tools being discussed.
As part of my research, I conducted surveys and analysis to understand public perceptions of AI.
The data collected from questionnaires revealed that a significant portion of respondents expressed concerns about AI's role in their lives, particularly regarding privacy and surveillance.
Additionally, I investigated various vulnerabilities within AI systems and explored how these systems learn.
![]()
![]()
Based on the characteristics of AI image recognition, I designed a series of experiments to test its features and limitations.
![]()
![]()
![]()
I identified that AI systems often struggle to discern changes that are highly dependent on environmental lighting conditions. Additionally, these systems can become more confused when provided with more information rather than less.
Based on these findings, I decided to focus my research on treating human shadows and human figures as a single entity.
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
What if we think in terms of AI to blur the graphical boundaries of the human being, to inductively define the hidden, the marginalized, the substance that strays from the human body as the new human being?
Combining the insights from artists' works, I propose to create a new sculpture by integrating AI with shadow-generated human forms. This synthesis aims to produce a sculpture that reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of human identity in the digital era.
![]()
![]()
![]()
I created an installation featuring sound and augmented reality (AR) virtual effects. I also developed a 3D model for it, allowing AI to visualize music programming through the virtual model, enriching the installation's form. Additionally, the installation does not have a fixed shape; it is composed of various interchangeable panels.
Integrate AI-generated shadows and dynamic forms, and create a new composite human figure.
And the image leverages AI to generate new human forms based on shadow effects.
I make some to build silhouettes.
![]()
![]()
Afterwards, I produced the garments and conducted multiple rounds of testing, fitting and adjustments.
![]()
![]()
![]()
Then, I integrated the shadow and highlight patterns resulting from human-device interactions into a cohesive image. Different body parts, such as 'legs and feet' and 'hands and arms,' were categorized and layered together to form a new composite human figure. This approach visualizes the complex interplay between technology and the human body.
The images resulting from human interactions with digital devices and the environment are deconstructed through light and shadow.
I transformed the AI-generated patterns into some new designs.
After that, I utilized double-layered lenticular materials to create dynamic, moving prints. The use of lenticular materials allows for visual effects that change with the viewer's perspective.
I believe that the integration of humans and AI is epoch-making.
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
In a similar vein, contemporary anxieties surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) mirror these concerns, as many individuals perceive AI as an invasive force that penetrates their personal lives and surveils their activities, much like the mechanisms of big data. However, it is imperative to recognize that we possess the agency to influence the architects of this Super Panopticon，because we are the agency.
In work, "The Viewer Society: Michel Foucault's 'Panopticon' Revisited" (1997), Mathiesen introduces the concept of the Synopticon, or the "surveillance of the few by the many," suggesting a reciprocal dynamic in which power is not solely concentrated in the hands of the few but is subject to scrutiny by the collective. The internet and databases, while formidable tools of surveillance, are not self-sustaining entities; they necessitate substantial human experience and engagement.
As sentient beings, our innate spontaneity and complexity are not easily comprehended by AI, which processes information and perceives the world through fundamentally different paradigms. This underscores the unique position of humans to critically engage with and potentially reshape the mechanisms of digital surveillance.”
Some analyses revealed that public discussions are influenced by user occupation and the specific generative AI tools being discussed.
As part of my research, I conducted surveys and analysis to understand public perceptions of AI.
The data collected from questionnaires revealed that a significant portion of respondents expressed concerns about AI's role in their lives, particularly regarding privacy and surveillance.
Additionally, I investigated various vulnerabilities within AI systems and explored how these systems learn.
Based on the characteristics of AI image recognition, I designed a series of experiments to test its features and limitations.
I identified that AI systems often struggle to discern changes that are highly dependent on environmental lighting conditions. Additionally, these systems can become more confused when provided with more information rather than less.
Based on these findings, I decided to focus my research on treating human shadows and human figures as a single entity.
What if we think in terms of AI to blur the graphical boundaries of the human being, to inductively define the hidden, the marginalized, the substance that strays from the human body as the new human being?Combining the insights from artists' works, I propose to create a new sculpture by integrating AI with shadow-generated human forms. This synthesis aims to produce a sculpture that reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of human identity in the digital era.
I created an installation featuring sound and augmented reality (AR) virtual effects. I also developed a 3D model for it, allowing AI to visualize music programming through the virtual model, enriching the installation's form. Additionally, the installation does not have a fixed shape; it is composed of various interchangeable panels.Integrate AI-generated shadows and dynamic forms, and create a new composite human figure.
And the image leverages AI to generate new human forms based on shadow effects.
I make some to build silhouettes.
Afterwards, I produced the garments and conducted multiple rounds of testing, fitting and adjustments.
Then, I integrated the shadow and highlight patterns resulting from human-device interactions into a cohesive image. Different body parts, such as 'legs and feet' and 'hands and arms,' were categorized and layered together to form a new composite human figure. This approach visualizes the complex interplay between technology and the human body.The images resulting from human interactions with digital devices and the environment are deconstructed through light and shadow.
I transformed the AI-generated patterns into some new designs.
After that, I utilized double-layered lenticular materials to create dynamic, moving prints. The use of lenticular materials allows for visual effects that change with the viewer's perspective.
I believe that the integration of humans and AI is epoch-making.
