Reading: The Figmentum Project

Figmentum is an experimental art project known as a ‘living wall’ which explores how social media networking communities can be visually represented. The community is asked to respond to simple questions which are posted online from their website that is accessed such as “Are you hungry?” to which you would respond accordingly. From the answer, a colour is given to represent the mood that appears on the artwork through a script/ code and shape, to represent the amount of people contributing to it. The artwork is then refreshed with current mood responses every 2 minutes appearing on the artwork over the time lapse of a week. As a result from viewing the artwork, the community are able to measure their mood or energy levels against other member of their community.

Through the exploration and study of these communities which are a joint connection of technology and people, the focus of the paper explores through the project and research, the potential possibilities of communicating intangible emotions within social communities and how to address and design “site specific information and communication technologies (ICTs) to foster community sentiment” (Morgan, C., 2009, pg. 144, para. 1). And furthermore, explore the social capital of shared experiences, trust, knowledge and authorship within these internet communities online.