Host is an experimental video narrative that unfolds at an automated teller machine (ATM). Produced amid hype surrounding the Internet boom of the late-90s when disappearance of the body, avatars, cyborgs, plastic surgery, and progress in fertility science were orders of the day. A visually complicated video that merges 90's "MTV aesthetic" with game design.

The artist performs two characters in dialog: a young woman who "logs in" to a street-side multimedia kiosk for an online therapy session; and a system operator who juggles several calls, including technical support for a worldwide network. The young woman confides to a surveillance camera about a troublesome relationship. The operator's remarks are almost always confusing and off-putting leading to feelings of disillusionment with the system by the user. It is unclear which system she might be referring to: social, economic, operating, or gaming–maybe all systems. The user bumbles something about upgrades and the promise of a second life.

Video synopsis written by Electronic Arts Intermix.

Support provided by through an Experimental Television Center Residency in 1996.
Distributed by Electronic Arts Intermix.

 
 
Previous
Previous

Kristin Lucas at Momenta Art

Next
Next

A common object has special powers...