Current/y
2022
AR, mixed mechanical installation
dimensions variable
The Mandarin title of the artwork “ 鎏” is a combination of two characters, “current”and “gold,” to
refer to the gold of high purity, while its pronunciation comes from the
former, as well as its English title. Based on its dual meanings, the artwork
further reflects on the transaction flow of virtual currencies, with which the
data flow of the work emerges. The current is a flow, sharing the same
etymological root with Currency, while the latter emphasizes the situation of
flowing from one person to another. The slash in its English title “Current/y”
not only suggests the dual meanings of “either/or” but is also recognized as a
separation mark in the programming language for folders and file paths. It thus
highlights the instant transition and paths of flow in global transactions of
virtual currencies. Values are established through an interpersonal exchange of
ideas, materials, and feelings. They reach an agreement, complete the
transaction, and share a belief in collective values. With blockchain and its
transparent transaction records as its data source, the artwork translates it
into a physical data flow. The transaction creates the current and projects
values onto the cryptocurrency, while its values are determined and validated
by the dimensions of the current.
Current/y investigates the liminal state of
value exchanges in the digital dimension, where it has a reciprocal
relationship with the equivalently bourgeoning technology. It generates images
in the space based on the direction of the currency flow and the turnover,
allowing viewers to experience the current of virtual currencies around the
world like the energy transfer in the natural and physical world–with its
gentle or sometimes even drastic flow. (Written by LEE Yen-Yi)
![]()
![]()
![]()
︎
