What makes you feel close to someone and how can we create that over the internet? In this research project I explored facial expression as a form of non – verbal communication, play, control, and the transcendence of closeness within the limitations and possibilities of the internet. You may view the work here-> Close Up (The site only works in chrome).

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Researchers state that 93% of communication is non-verbal. We heavily rely on our innate ability to read facial expressions and body language. Facial recognition is often an emotional experience for the brain. One of my favorite writers on neuroscience Antonio Damasio explains how our brains feel emotion, “An emotion consists of a very well orchestrated set of alterations in the body. Its purpose is to make life more survivable by taking care of a danger or taking advantage of an opportunity.”

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Check out the nytimes review on his book The Feeling of What Happens and here’s a link to a video of Antonio on feeling emotion.

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