An interactive installation exploring the complexity of identity, 2015
Identity is complex, fluid, and deeply personal. Identity Wheel invites viewers to engage directly with this concept by interacting with a large touchscreen, where they explore, question, and construct their own sense of self. Through this interactive format, users navigate the multifaceted nature of identity, forming unique combinations that reflect both individuality and shared experience.
The installation is inspired by Ars Magna, a logical machine devised by Ramon Llull that used rotating paper circles to combine ideas and concepts in endless ways, offering new ways to understand the world. In Identity Wheel, this combinatorial approach is applied to identity itself. The installation comprises seven circles, each representing a different dimension:
The installation is inspired by Ars Magna, a logical machine devised by Ramon Llull that used rotating paper circles to combine ideas and concepts in endless ways, offering new ways to understand the world. In Identity Wheel, this combinatorial approach is applied to identity itself. The installation comprises seven circles, each representing a different dimension:
- Assigned Gender at Birth (AGAB)The gender designated at birth, often based on physical characteristics.
- Gender IdentityAn individual’s internal sense of their own gender, which may or may not align with their assigned gender at birth.
- Gender Expression SpectrumThe range and manner in which an individual expresses their gender through clothing, behavior, and appearance.
- Sexual OrientationAn enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attraction to others.
- Romantic OrientationA pattern of romantic attraction that may or may not align with sexual orientation.
- Sexual BehaviorA category acknowledging a person’s sexual practices, which can differ from their sexual or romantic orientation.
- Open CategoryA customizable circle allowing users to define any aspect of identity that may be meaningful to them.
Viewers rotate the circles on the screen, assembling combinations that align with their self-perception or reflect an ideal identity.
Each circle includes options in black and white: black negates the category, while white allows a custom entry, giving users the freedom to opt out of certain categories or add personalized values. Some circles also feature synonymous terms, recognizing the nuances of individual identity—such as choosing “gay” over “lesbian.” This flexibility embraces both binary and non-binary views, emphasizing the diversity and interconnectedness of identity.
Identity Wheel is designed to provoke thought and conversation. It encourages users to explore combinations that reflect the layered and evolving nature of identity, fostering a deeper understanding of the personal and societal dimensions of self-expression.
Each circle includes options in black and white: black negates the category, while white allows a custom entry, giving users the freedom to opt out of certain categories or add personalized values. Some circles also feature synonymous terms, recognizing the nuances of individual identity—such as choosing “gay” over “lesbian.” This flexibility embraces both binary and non-binary views, emphasizing the diversity and interconnectedness of identity.
Identity Wheel is designed to provoke thought and conversation. It encourages users to explore combinations that reflect the layered and evolving nature of identity, fostering a deeper understanding of the personal and societal dimensions of self-expression.